The first heart device of its kind | Stem cell patch impresses | FDA sees promise in new therapy | MAC linked to major risks

The shunt device being reviewed showed a 52% reduction in hospitalizations and favorable trends in mortality in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. 

The new patch is implanted through a tiny incision and held in place with a biocompatible adhesive. It then helps the heart recover over time, replacing dead tissue that would typically never be able to regenerate. 

A system-wide initiative in Sweden helped hospitals reduce readmission rates and shorten lengths of stay. When it came to heart failure patients specifically, however, the changes barely made an impact.

In some cases, researchers noted, cardiologists may need to rely on transcaval access during the treatment of a high-risk heart failure patient. 

A clinical trial focused on patients with HFpEF is expected to be completed by July 2026.

In fact, researchers wrote, MAC appears to influence a patient's odds of developing HFpEF even more than their BMI.

The flexible device is attached to the inner wall of the left ventricle during a minimally invasive procedure. It was designed to reduce the size of the left ventricle over time.