Flow. Failure. Fix: LVAD Emergencies Simplified ⚕️
Dr RR Baliga's "Got Knowledge Doc" Podkast
March 18, 20268m 30s
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Show Notes
LVAD patients are increasingly encountered in emergency rooms and ICUs, yet many clinicians remain uncertain about initial management.
A recent JACC State-of-the-Art Review provides a practical framework for recognizing and treating LVAD emergencies, from pump thrombosis and right-heart failure to arrhythmias and GI bleeding.
Key pearls:
- LVAD patients may lack a palpable pulse,
- Doppler is preferred for MAP measurement, and
- Chest compressions should not be delayed if cardiac arrest is confirmed.
- First check power connection
- Understanding pump parameters and echocardiographic clues can rapidly guide diagnosis and life-saving therapy.