Thoratec HeartMate III, Instructions For Use Manual, Page: 274 / 458

6 Patient Care and Management
6-10 HeartMate III Left Ventricular Assist System Instructions for Use
Important Clinical Considerations for HeartMate III Patients
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Use of diagnostic MRI is contraindicated in any patient with an implanted HeartMate III
Left Ventricular Assist Device. The presence of ferromagnetic parts within the Pump makes
exposure to strong electromagnetic fields a risk factor for acute Pump failure. Keep patients away
from the RF-shielded room of MRI suites.
External Chest Compressions
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.
External chest compressions may damage the Outflow Graft or dislodge the Left Ventricular Assist
Device inflow.
Cardiac massage under direct vision, performed by a skilled surgeon, may be effective in patients
who have had recent Pump implantation (prior to mediastinal healing).
Defibrillation
Blood Leak Diagnosis
A blood leak from any implanted component of the system is typically identified through one of the
following symptoms:
• Unexplained internal bleeding (beyond the perioperative period following implant), possibly
with painful distension of the abdomen or tamponade.
• Blood draining from the Driveline exit site.
• Evidence of decreased hemoglobin/hematocrit.
These symptoms may also occur due to bleeding from native tissue.
WARNING !
• If open chest defibrillation is required, be sure to disconnect the HeartMate III
Left Ventricular Assist System prior to delivering the shock.
• If external defibrillation becomes necessary, do not disconnect the System Controller from
the Driveline prior to delivering the shock.