A New Tool For An Explantation Strategy Of Heartmate 3 (Tm) Left Ventricular Assist Device

Although rare, recovery of cardiac function after mechanical support of the left ventricle is the most desirable therapeutic goal in the treatment of end-stage heart failure. Herein, we present a novel implantable device for explantation of the HeartMate 3 (TM) left ventricular assist device (LVAD) in patients, following cardiac recovery, avoiding (re-) sternotomy. This article demonstrates the feasibility of applying this novel device, which fits into the sewing ring of the LVAD. This custom-made mechanical plug offers a promising alternative to standard device-explantation procedures.