Heart Failure

Heart failure occurs when the heart cannot pump as much blood as the body requires. This ineffective pumping can lead to enlargement of the heart as the myocardium works harder pump the same amount of blood. Heart failure may be caused by defects in the myocardium, such as an a heart attack infarct, or due to structural issues such as severe heart valve regurgitation. Heart failure can be divided into HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), and HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). The disease is further divided into four New York Heart Association (NYHA) classes. Stage IV heart failure is when the heart is completely failing and requires a heart transplant or hemodynamic support from a left ventricular assist device (LVAD).

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AEE use during CIED procedures for HFrEF patients not always cost-effective

The use of these devices when treating certain high-risk patients is still recommended.  

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Metformin boosts outcomes for patients with HF and diabetes—sulfonylurea initiation makes things worse

Sulfonylureas, researchers wrote, "may best be avoided" among patients with both HF and diabetes. 

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Good news: Survival is up, hospitalization costs are down among older HF patients

Hospitalizations are also getting shorter, allowing patients to return to the comfort of home earlier than before. 

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Annual heart failure costs in the US could surpass $70B by 2030

As one might expect, the largest economic burden linked to HF is related to hospitalizations.

Heart failure associated with an increased risk of cancer

Cardiologists and oncologists should collaborate to guide the optimal management of patients with HF and cancer.

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Q&A: Cardiologist discusses COVID-19 and its impact on patient care

Eric Stecker, MD, chair of the American College of Cardiology's Science and Quality Committee, joined us for an exclusive interview. 

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Cardiac resynchronization therapy boosts care for older HFrEF patients

All patients included in the analysis faced a high risk of complications, researchers noted. 

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‘A historic, monumental step forward’: Surgeon transplants modified pig heart into a human patient for first time

"I want to live," the 57-year-old patient said before the procedure. "I know it's a shot in the dark, but it's my last choice.”

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