Cardiac Arrest
There may be risks associated with performing external chest compressions in the
event of cardiac arrest, due to the location of the outflow graft and the presence of
ventricular apical anastomosis. Performing external chest compressions may result
in disruption of the aortic anastomosis or dislodgement of the LVAD inflow tract.
Clinical judgement should be used when deciding whether or not to perform exter-
nal chest compressions.
Cardiac massage under direct vision, performed by a skilled surgeon may be effec-
tive in patients who have had recent device implantation (prior to mediastinal heal-
ing).
CLINICAL OPERATION AND PATIENT MANAGEMENT
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