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Lumped-Parameter and Finite Element Modeling of Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction
Published on: February 13, 2021
Patient Selection, Referral Timing, and Advanced Heart Disease Therapy Options for Heart Failure with Reduced
Karthik Sreedhara1, Gurusher Panjrath1
1Division of Cardiology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2150 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20037, USA; George Washington University Heart and Vascular Institute.
Patients with advanced heart failure need timely referral to specialized centers. Early evaluation for advanced therapies like left ventricular assist devices and heart transplantation can improve survival and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Advanced Heart Failure Management
- Cardiac Transplantation
Background:
- Advanced heart failure presents with severe symptoms and functional decline, despite optimal medical treatment.
- This condition is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality.
- Timely referral to specialized centers is crucial for patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify key parameters for referring patients with advanced heart failure to specialized centers.
- To outline the evaluation process for advanced heart failure therapies.
- To detail indications and contraindications for left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation and heart transplantation.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical parameters prompting referral for advanced heart failure.
- Elucidation of the multidisciplinary evaluation process for advanced therapies.
- Analysis of established indications and contraindications for LVAD and heart transplantation.
Main Results:
- Specific clinical signs and symptoms necessitate referral to advanced heart failure and transplantation centers.
- A structured evaluation is essential for determining candidacy for mechanical circulatory support and transplantation.
- Key factors influencing eligibility for left ventricular assist devices and heart transplants are identified.
Conclusions:
- Prompt referral based on defined parameters can significantly improve quality of life and survival in advanced heart failure patients.
- Comprehensive evaluation ensures appropriate selection for advanced therapeutic options.
- Understanding indications and contraindications is vital for successful advanced heart failure management.
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