Overview

All patients undergoing an implantation of a durable left ventricular assist device and monitored by pulmonary artery catheter showing no adverse events after surgery are included in the study and ventilated for 15 minutes using extra thoracic negative pressure ventilation and usual intrathoracic positive pressure ventilation. Hemodynamics changes between both ventilation modes, especially focussing on right ventricular function and measured by a pulmonary artery catheter, are compared.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

• All patients after implantation of a durable left ventricular assist device

Exclusion Criteria:

• Complication during surgery like bleeding, emergency, inability to fit the cuirass, unavailability of an investigator, unstable condition regarding circulation or ventilation