Impella is a special device used inside the left ventricle (left lower chamber of the heart) to help improve the pumping of the heart. The newer version of Impella called Impella RP can do the same work for the Right ventricle (Right lower chamber of the heart). This device is introduced through a key-hole in the upper part of the thigh (mostly, but can also be inserted via other large blood vessels in the body) and can be left in place for few days to week. This is useful in patients with acute heart failure such as having an acute heart attack called Cardiogenic shock (when the pumping of the heart becomes so weak). The Impella acts as a pump sucking the blood from the heart and release it in the main blood vessel call aorta to supply the organs in the body. Essentially it gives little rest to the already damaged heart until the heart gets recovered.
The other situation where it is used is when complex heart procedures are done (particularly angioplasty) when the patient’s heart pumping is very weak, which is otherwise called as Protected PCI. Protected PCI with Impella can be a safe treatment option to address severe coronary artery disease or advanced heart failure. Impella heart pumps have the unique ability to enable heart recovery, allowing patients to return home with their native hearts. This device will stay in position to help the pumping until the heart recovers from the acute insult. This can also be used as a bridge to heart transplant to support the heart until donor heart is available. In situations such as Protected PCI, Impella can be removed immediately after the procedure or left for few days until heart recovers.