Single-center experience of LVAD implantation in patients with
sickle-cell trait: a retrospective analysis
Abstract
Background: The most worrisome complications in patients
supported by left ventricular assist device (LVAD) are pump thrombosis,
embolism, and bleeding. The actual rate of these events in patients with
sickle-cell disease (SCD) has not well investigated. The aim of our
study is to evaluate the outcomes of LVAD implantation in patients with
sickle-cell hemoglobinopathy at our institution. Methods: This
retrospective, observational, single-center study was conducted on
patients with sickle-cell trait (SCT), who underwent LVAD implantation
using the HeartMate3 LVAD. Results: LVAD devices were implanted
in four patients with SCT. All procedures were performed successfully.
All patients had uneventful post-implant course. Overall, the mean
follow-up time was 25 months (range 21-28 months) and showed an
unremarkable post-implant course. There was a significant improvement in
hematological markers over the follow-up period. Conclusions:
Despite the limited numbers of patients enrolled in this study, our
findings indicate that LVAD surgery is safe in SCD patients and offers
remarkable clinical improvement. Further studies are needed to provide
more evidence regarding this type of patients undergoing LVAD
implantation.