MicroMed

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) is one of the most difficult forms of cardiovascular disease to treat. By strict definition, it is not a disease, but rather a syndrome that manifests itself as the result of cardiovascular disease. It usually results from myocardial infarction[s], coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, or some form of cardiomyopathy [a broad term used to define heart muscle disease of unknown cause]. It is chronic in nature and tends to be associated with significant disability and morbidity. The fundamental physiological manifestation of congestive heart failure is an inability of the heart to eject its contents [blood] adequately to meet the needs of the organs, tissues and cells of the body. People with congestive heart failure often experience edema (swelling). This usually occurs in the legs and ankles but it can also affect the lungs, causing shortness of breath, and is made worse by lying down.

According to the American Heart Association, there are 5 million people currently living with heart failure with 550,000 new cases diagnosed each year. The New York Heart Association Classifies CHF patients into four groups – Class I through Class IV. It is the latter group of patients; Class IV, who are considered candidates for heart transplantation. In 2006 there were 2,192 patients in the United States who received a donor heart. Unfortunately, more than 30% of the patients on the transplant list die waiting for a suitable heart. The patient already has a weakened heart and any deterioration may be fatal. A left Ventricular Assist Device, can serve as a bridge–to–transplant or it can possibly become a permanent treatment option.

Treatment consists of the following:

• Rest
• Diet
• Modification of daily activities
• Medication that may include-ACE inhibitors, Beta blockers, Digitalis,    Diuretics, Vasodilators
• Severe cases may require heart transplantation. This can occur after    long term heart disease where the patient has reached maximum    medical therapy and there is no other surgical means available.
• In 2006, there were 2,192 heart transplants performed in the United    States, 2,125 in 2005, and 2,016 in 2004.

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MicroMed Cardiovascular, Inc. | 8965 Interchange Drive | Houston, Texas 77054
Phone: (713) 838-9210 | Fax: (713) 838-9214 | Email: micromed@micromedcv.com

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) is one of the most difficult forms of cardiovascular disease to treat. By strict definition, it is not a disease, but rather a syndrome that manifests itself as the result of cardiovascular disease. It usually results from myocardial infarction[s], coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, or some form of cardiomyopathy [a broad term used to define heart muscle disease of unknown cause]. It is chronic in nature and tends to be associated with significant disability and morbidity. The fundamental physiological manifestation of congestive heart failure is an inability of the heart to eject its contents [blood] adequately to meet the needs of the organs, tissues and cells of the body. People with congestive heart failure often experience edema (swelling). This usually occurs in the legs and ankles but it can also affect the lungs, causing shortness of breath, and is made worse by lying down.

According to the American Heart Association, there are 5 million people currently living with heart failure with 550,000 new cases diagnosed each year. The New York Heart Association Classifies CHF patients into four groups – Class I through Class IV. It is the latter group of patients; Class IV, who are considered candidates for heart transplantation. In 2006 there were 2,192 patients in the United States who received a donor heart. Unfortunately, more than 30% of the patients on the transplant list die waiting for a suitable heart. The patient already has a weakened heart and any deterioration may be fatal. A left Ventricular Assist Device, can serve as a bridge–to–transplant or it can possibly become a permanent treatment option.

Treatment consists of the following:

• Rest
• Diet
• Modification of daily activities
• Medication that may include-ACE inhibitors, Beta blockers, Digitalis,    Diuretics, Vasodilators
• Severe cases may require heart transplantation. This can occur after    long term heart disease where the patient has reached maximum    medical therapy and there is no other surgical means available.
• In 2006, there were 2,192 heart transplants performed in the United    States, 2,125 in 2005, and 2,016 in 2004.