Successful treatment of Novacor pump pocket infection by omental transposition

Device-related infection remains a major factor restricting the long-term use of left ventricular assist systems. Severe pocket infection is especially difficult to manage and removal of the device has been the only curative treatment in most cases. We report a case of a Novacor device pocket infection treated successfully with continuous local irrigation and transposition of omental flap. This procedure provides another option for the management of pocket infection, which is mandatory for destination therapy the permanent usage of LVAS for the purpose of circulatory supports in patients with end–stage heart failure, who are not indicated for heart transplantation.