A technique for implanting outflow cannulas for Berlin Heart EXCOR ventricular assist device in small pediatric patients.

摘要

The Berlin Heart EXCOR (Berlin, Germany) ventricular assist device has been used with increasing frequency in younger pediatric patients. The smallest available blood pump has a 10-mL volume, and the smallest outflow cannula tip is 3 mm in diameter. The cannula has a 90-degree angulation with a flanged tip for sewing to the ascending aorta or main pulmonary artery. There is a short, grooved extension from the flange in this design.