Berlin Heart EXCOR in the neonatal period

Abstract

Cardiac transplantation is a well-established therapy for the treatment of end-stage heart failure in pediatric patients. However, young children have an increased risk of death on the waiting list. Traditionally, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has been the predominant support strategy in children as a bridge to transplant, but its use has limitations due to the high risk of complications and mortality. Ventricular assist devices have proven to be an effective bridge to transplantation, with better results compared to ECMO. Smaller patients (