Mechanical Circulatory Support in Pediatrics

Abstract This chapter focuses on the use of mechanical circulatory support in the pediatric population. While extracorporeal membranous oxygenation has been the building block for its evolution, children are commonly implanted with pediatric paracorporeal continuous flow devices, adult continuous flow devices used off-label, or a pediatric approved paracorporeal pulsatile device. Currently, devices are almost exclusively used as bridge-to-transplantation in this population with most recipients having either dilated cardiomyopathy or cardiac failure secondary to congenital heart disease. Several nuances of patient selection, timing of implantation, and management while on device are covered in this chapter including anticoagulation and single-ventricle patients.