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DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1297831
Improved flexibility of babies with a mobile VAD Ikus unit. An in hospital solution
Objectives: Mobilization of babies with a Berlin Heart assist device is dependent on two additional persons: the first one to move the 124kg IKUS and the second one to move the buggy with the baby. We developed a mobile solution in order to improve movability of patient secured by only one person.
Methods: A 16 months old female patient with dilatative cardiomyopathy was treated with implantation of Excor-LVAD and is listed for transplantation. We secured a removable retaining plate with eye suspension (ISO Norm 13216) to the Ikus enabling fixation of a Römer-baby seat to the unit. The system is usually designated for car integration and was recommended by the traffic safety board.
Results: The mobile VAD Ikus enables transport and movement of the child with only one accompanying person in the hospital. The baby is fixed to the Ikus accordingly to a baby seat in a car. Mobility is improved by abandonment of the buggy. The acceptance of both, child and parents was extraordinary positive.
Conclusions: With the mobile VAD Ikus unit we are able to transport children between 9–18kg with only one additional person- Flexibility and freedom of movement for children with assist device and their parents is improved.