Patient Selection, Referral Framework and Emerging Therapies in Severe Ischemic Heart Failure: A State-of-the-Art

Jawad Basit1, Ankit Hanmandlu2, Bourann Husainy2

  • 1Department of Medicine, Rawalpindi Medical University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan.

Heart Failure Clinics
|March 27, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Chronic ischemic heart disease can cause heart failure. Early referral for advanced therapies, including mechanical support or palliative care, is crucial for managing severe cases and improving patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Heart Failure Research

Background:

  • Chronic or severe ischemic heart disease can result in myocardial damage and progress to heart failure.
  • Effective management requires a comprehensive evaluation of revascularization options.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To outline considerations for evaluating patients with ischemic heart disease and potential heart failure.
  • To identify criteria for early referral for advanced therapies.

Main Methods:

  • Review of noninvasive assessments, physiologic testing, and angiographic characteristics.
  • Consideration of patient comorbidities and functional status.
  • Evaluation of criteria for advanced therapy referral.

Main Results:

  • Comprehensive assessment guides revascularization decisions.
  • Specific indicators prompt early referral for advanced therapies.
  • Mechanical circulatory support serves as a bridge to transplant.

Conclusions:

  • Timely referral for advanced therapies is critical for managing advanced ischemic heart disease.
  • Palliative services can significantly improve quality of life for non-transplant candidates.

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