Future Trends In Mechanical Support (Aditya Bansal, MD, FACS) June 29, 2017

The New Orleans Conference - Las Vegas Edition "Future Trends In Mechanical Support" Aditya Bansal, MD, FACS June 29, 2017

### A Deep Dive into Mechanical Circulatory Support: Where We Are and What Lies Ahead

In today's rapidly evolving medical landscape, Mechanical Circulatory Support (MCS) stands as a testament to how far we've come in the realm of cardiac care. This blog aims to provide an in-depth look into the current trends, devices, and future prospects in MCS, offering valuable insights for healthcare professionals, researchers, and patients alike.

#### The Importance of Timely Initiation

One of the key takeaways from the blog is the critical role that the timing of MCS initiation plays in patient outcomes. Often, there is a tendency to delay the use of MCS, perhaps in the hope of a miraculous recovery. However, the blog emphasizes that timely action is crucial for the success of any MCS therapy. 

#### Current Devices: Temporary and Permanent

The blog offers a detailed breakdown of the devices currently in use, categorizing them into temporary and permanent devices. The most common temporary device, the intra-aortic balloon pump, is discussed alongside other platforms like the Impella, Central Mag, and Tandem. On the permanent side, the blog explores devices such as HeartMate 2, HeartMate 3, and the Total Artificial Heart. Each device is examined for its mechanism of action, advantages, and disadvantages, providing a well-rounded view of the options available.

#### Clinical Trials and Future Prospects

The blog doesn't stop at what's available now; it also gives us a glimpse into the future. Devices like HeartMate 3, which is in the clinical trial phase, and other promising technologies like the fully implantable LVAD are discussed. These innovations aim to reduce complications like infections and improve the quality of life for patients.

#### The Role of Anticoagulation

One of the challenges in MCS is managing anticoagulation to prevent thrombosis without causing bleeding. The blog touches on this delicate balance and how new devices aim to mitigate this issue. For instance, the Tandem platform is working on reducing the need for anticoagulation, which could be a game-changer in MCS therapy.

#### Team Approach: Collaboration is Key

The blog stresses the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving surgeons, perfusionists, and cardiologists. The success of MCS therapy is not just about the device but also about how well healthcare professionals can collaborate to manage these complex cases.

#### Realistic Goals and Exit Strategies

Another vital point the blog makes is the need for realistic goals and exit strategies. MCS can be a life-saving intervention, but it's crucial to have a clear understanding of what can be achieved and how to manage potential complications.

#### Remote Monitoring and Patient Management

The future of MCS also lies in remote monitoring, allowing healthcare providers to make real-time adjustments to devices, thereby improving patient outcomes. This is particularly important in a post-pandemic world, where telehealth is becoming increasingly prevalent.

#### Expense and Accessibility

While MCS offers groundbreaking solutions, it's not without its challenges. The blog acknowledges the high costs associated with these devices, which could be a barrier to widespread adoption. However, as technology advances, there is hope that more cost-effective solutions will become available.

#### Conclusion: The Future is Bright

In summary, the video offers a holistic view of Mechanical Circulatory Support, from its current state to its promising future. It serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in the field, providing the knowledge needed to make informed decisions. With advancements in technology and a focus on multidisciplinary care, the future of MCS looks promising, offering new avenues for enhancing patient care and improving outcomes.