Delayed Surgery After Mechanical Circulatory Support for Ventricular Septal Rupture With Cardiogenic Shock

Morimura et al. report on mechanical circulatory support bridging prior to repair of ventricular septal rupture. In eight patients, the use of intraaortic balloon pump +/- extracorporeal life support led to avoidance of emergency operation. Survival was 7/8 perioperative and 5/8 after one year. Delayed surgery of ventricular septal rupture by mechanical circulatory support bridging constitutes a safe strategy.