Longitudinal Evaluation of Inflow Cannula Orientation Following Ventricular-Assist Device Implantation Using Transoesophageal Echocardiography

Background: Continuous-flow ventricular assist devices (CF-VAD) are utilised in selected patients with severe heart failure as a bridge to cardiac transplantation or as destination therapy. Transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) is an important imaging technique to guide implantation and in subsequent assessment of patients supported with a CF-VAD. Satisfactory location and orientation of the inflow cannula is required to minimise complications. We aimed to evaluate any temporal change in Heartware HVAD cannula orientation during long-term follow-up.