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[Efficacy of shock-wave therapy in the treatment of chronic ischemic heart failure]

Iu A Vasiuk, A B Khadzegova, E L Shkol'nik

    Kardiologiia
    |May 20, 2011
    PubMed

    Insights

    Shock-wave therapy (SWT) significantly improved chronic heart failure (CHF) symptoms, enhancing left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and exercise capacity. These findings support further investigation into SWT for CHF patients.

    Area of Science:

    • Cardiology
    • Regenerative Medicine

    Background:

    • Shock-wave therapy (SWT) has demonstrated efficacy and safety in treating stable effort angina.
    • Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a significant clinical challenge, particularly in patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF).

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To evaluate the efficacy of SWT in improving clinical status and cardiac function in patients with CHF of ischemic origin.
    • To assess changes in LVEF, exercise capacity, and myocardial contractility following SWT.

    Main Methods:

    • Twenty-four patients with CHF (LVEF <40%) received nine sessions of SWT targeting viable myocardial segments identified by dobutamine stress echocardiography.
    • Patients were assessed at baseline and at 3 and 6 months post-treatment for CHF class, 6-minute walk test distance, LVEF, and LV longitudinal strain.
    • Troponin T levels were monitored weekly during treatment.

    Main Results:

    • SWT significantly reduced CHF class and improved the 6-minute walk test distance at 3 and 6 months post-treatment.
    • Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) showed significant augmentation at 3 and 6 months.
    • SWT led to improved LV contractility, evidenced by increased LV longitudinal deformation and restored function in hibernating myocardial segments.

    Conclusions:

    • SWT offers significant clinical benefits for patients with CHF, including improved exercise tolerance and cardiac function.
    • The observed improvements in LVEF and functional capacity warrant further investigation through placebo-controlled studies.
    Abstract

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