Right-ventricular failure following left ventricle assist device implantation

PURPOSE OF REVIEWTo review recent insights on right-ventricular failure (RVF) following left-ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. RECENT FINDINGSEven with the availability of new generation continuous mechanical assist devices, RVF after implantation of LVAD is still associated with high morbidity and mortality. Recent studies have tried to better define the risk of RVF using combined clinical scores and measures of right-ventricular function or strain. Small exploratory studies have also investigated the role of pulmonary vasodilators and phosphodiesterase inhibitors in selected patients receiving LVAD implantation. SUMMARYMeasure of right-ventricular function could improve the risk stratification of RVF following LVAD implantation. Future multicenter studies are needed to validate right-ventricular risk scores and to develop evidence-guided preventive and therapeutic strategies.