Impact of Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia on Outcome in Patients with Ventricular Assist Device Support: Single-Institution Experience in 358 Consecutive Patients

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia is a frequent complication in VAD patients and is associated with detrimental outcome when occurring after implantation. Preoperative diagnosis of HIT and the implementation of alternative anticoagulation procedures appears to be associated with better results. Early detection of HIT antibodies before or shortly after VAD implantation and immediate implementation of an alternative anticoagulation regimen may be a strategy to improve outcome.