ECPELLA 2.0—Minimally invasive biventricular groin‐free full mechanical circulatory support with Impella 5.0/5.5 pump and ProtekDuo cannula as a bridge‐to‐bridge concept: A first‐in‐man method description

Background Cardiogenic shock (CS) from biventricular heart failure that requires acute mechanical circulatory support (MCS) is associated with high mortality. Different MCS methods and techniques have emerged as a standard of care in CS. Nevertheless, the routine MCS approach carries multiple limitations such as limb ischemia, missing of left ventricular unloading and immobilization. We describe a method to establish a groin-free full support MCS in patients with CS without the need for thoracotomy. This is the first report of the ECPELLA 2.0 concept, a peripheral groin-free biventricular MCS in patients with acute CS. Methods and results We discuss two patients in acute CS (INTERMACS I) treated with two peripheral MCS devices (Impella 5.0 or 5.5 surgically via an axillary artery and ProtekDuo cannula percutaneously via a right internal jugular vein) as a bridge before the implantation of a durable left ventricular assist device (LVAD). Biventricular assist device (BIVAD)-support duration was 9 and 15 days and both of the patients were successfully bridged to a durable LVAD. As our BIVAD-concept is groin-free, the patients started full mobilization as early as they were weaned from the respirator 2 days after the BIVAD-implantation. ECPELLA 2.0 provides a high cardiac output, right and left ventricular unloading with end-organ recovery and a possibility of administration of a membrane oxygenator. There were no device-related complications. Conclusion The ECPELLA 2.0 biventricular support concept for patients suffering from an acute CS. Allows for rapid extubation, mobilization, and physical exercise while on full support. Additional application of a membrane oxygenator is easily feasible if required.