Colonic perforation from left ventricular assist device: a rare complication

Abstract

A patient with idiopathic non-ischemic cardiomyopathy had a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implanted, while awaiting cardiac transplantation. The patient had been stable following a complicated and prolonged postoperative course, but was admitted to the hospital for suspected low-grade LVAD-related infection. Work-up for sepsis was suspicious for perforated viscus. An exploratory laparotomy revealed a perforated transverse colon with gross spillage of succus. Although infectious complications following LVAD implantation are common, sepsis as a result of gastrointestinal perforation secondary to LVAD erosion is not. This first report of viscus perforation despite the use of a Gore-Tex wrap highlights a rare complication of LVAD therapy.