A Modified Technique for Implantation of the HeartWare™ Left Ventricular Assist Device When Using Bivalirudin Anticoagulation in Patients with Acute Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia
We report here a modified surgical strategy for the implantation of the HeartWare™ left ventricular assist device, which avoids prolonged disconnection of the blood-filled device from the systemic blood flow, so that bivalirudin can be safely used as anticoagulant.