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Direct Echocardiographic Imaging of Berlin Heart Valves Can Aid in Early Detection of Berlin Heart Valve Dysfunction
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Direct Echocardiographic Imaging of Berlin Heart Valves Can Aid in Early Detection of Berlin Heart Valve Dysfunction

Gary S Beasley, Kristen Nelson-McMillan, Luca Vricella, William R Thompson and William Ravekes
ASAIO journal (1992), Vol.65(1), pp.e4-e6
01/2019
DOI: 10.1097/MAT.0000000000000756
PMID: 29384755
url
https://doi.org/10.1097/MAT.0000000000000756View
Published (Version of record) Open Access

Abstract

Mechanical circulatory support options remain limited for pediatric patients, especially neonates. The only U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved pediatric device remains the Berlin Heart EXCOR, which unfortunately carries with it a 20-30% risk of neurologic complications, such as strokes. We demonstrate a new technique of direct echocardiographic color-Doppler imaging of the Berlin Heart valves to detect valve regurgitation. Increases in valve regurgitation could indicate issues with pump-valve thrombosis or increased afterload leading to valve insufficiency. Early recognition of valve thrombosis or insufficiency may reduce neurologic complications and lead to timely pump adjustments or replacement.
Child Echocardiography, Doppler - methods Female Heart-Assist Devices - adverse effects Humans Infant Male Thrombosis - diagnostic imaging Thrombosis - etiology

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