Centrifugal-Flow vs. Axial-Flow LVADs: Two-Year Outcomes

Longer-term analysis confirms early results showing the new centrifugal-flow device is superior in complication-free survival, primarily due to reduction in pump thrombosis.

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) prolong life for patients with refractory advanced heart failure, but commonly used axial-flow devices carry the risk for serious complications including pump thrombosis. In a previous report of 6-month results from the manufacturer-sponsored MOMENTUM 3 trial (NEJM JW Cardiol Nov 2016 and N Engl J Med 2017; 376:440), patients with advanced heart failure receiving a magnetically levitated, centrifugal-flow device (HeartMate 3) had no episodes of thrombosis, versus a 10% rate in those receiving an axial-flow device.

The researchers now report longer-term follow-up in 366 patients (mean age, 60; 80% male; mean left ventricular ejection fraction, 17%). All patients received aspirin (81–325 mg/day) and warf…

Reviewing Author

Frederick A. Masoudi, MD, MSPH, FACC, FAHA

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardBristol Myers Squibb; CPC Clinical Research

Grant/Research SupportNational Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Editorial BoardsUpToDate; American College of Cardiology Self-Assessment Program (SAP)

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican College of Cardiology (Chair, Innovations Committee)