The optimal placement of the inflow cannula is critical for adequate ventricular unloading
and device function in left ventricular assist device implantation. The anatomy of
the left ventricle varies widely between patients yielding unpredictable surgical
results depending on cannula position. We therefore aimed at devising a novel approach
for optimal placement of the cannula in the clinical setting using computer-aided
three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction and 3D printed guiding exoskeleton. This novel
cannula positioning technique provides a personalized left ventricular assist device
implantation considering the anatomical aspects of the implantation before the surgery.
Clinical trial registration: Local Ethical Board number 202/2005.
