Gastrointestinal bleeding after continuous-flow left ventricular device implantation: review of pathophysiology and management

Ashrith Guha; Carrie L Eshelbrenner; David M Richards; Howard P Monsour Jr

doi:10.14797/mdcj-11-1-24

Gastrointestinal bleeding after continuous-flow left ventricular device implantation: review of pathophysiology and management

Methodist Debakey Cardiovasc J. 2015 Jan-Mar;11(1):24-7. doi: 10.14797/mdcj-11-1-24.

Authors

Ashrith Guha¹, Carrie L Eshelbrenner¹, David M Richards¹, Howard P Monsour Jr¹

Affiliation

¹ Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas.

Abstract

Gastrointestinal bleeding is one of the most common complications in patients with continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices. Though the exact pathophysiology is still unclear, continuous-flow physiology, acquired Von Willebrand disease, and formation of arteriovenous malformations in the gastrointestinal tract are implicated. An individualized plan of endoscopic therapy and anticoagulation management is required when caring for these patients.

Keywords: LVAD risk factors; gastrointestinal bleeding; heart assist device.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Combined Modality Therapy
Female
Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / etiology
Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / mortality
Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / physiopathology*
Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / therapy*
Heart Failure / diagnosis
Heart Failure / surgery*
Heart-Assist Devices / adverse effects*
Hemostatic Techniques
Humans
Male
Postoperative Hemorrhage / etiology
Postoperative Hemorrhage / mortality
Postoperative Hemorrhage / physiopathology*
Postoperative Hemorrhage / therapy*
Prognosis
Risk Assessment
Severity of Illness Index
Survival Rate