Mycobacterium chimaera left ventricular assist device infections

Balsam and colleagues present two cases of Mycobacterium chimaera infection following implantation of left ventricular assist devices, likely linked to bioaerosols from heater-cooler units used during surgery. Both cases were milder than has been reported following valvular and aortic graft surgery, but long-term sterilization of the internal hardware is unlikely. The authors also discuss their local practice changes that aim to prevent future cases.