Heart Failure
Heart failure is a condition where the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, because the heart has either become too weak or stiff. A person with heart failure can not meet the body’s needs for oxygen and nutrients. Symptoms often include fatigue, shortness of breath and swelling in the legs and abdomen.
Globally, estimated prevalence of people who have heart failure is 56 million individuals with highest prevalence in North America, Europe and East Asia. Currently, about 6 million people are living with this condition in the US. It is a progressive deadly disease and about 50% of people who develop heart failure die within 5 years. The two year survival rate for a person who has severe heart failure is 20-30%.
People with moderate to severe heart failure may be offered to receive a mechanical heart pump that is called a ventricular assist device (VAD). A VAD helps the heart pump blood when its too weak. It is connected to the heart and helps improve blood flow to the body. It can be a temporary solution while a person waits for a heart transplant or a long term solution if a transplant is not an option.
Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD)
Some people have both right and left sided heart failure. If both sides are severe, a total artificial heart may be offered while they await for a heart transplant. A TAH is a device that completely replaces a person’s failing heart.
Total Artificial Heart
Heart Transplant
A heart transplant is typically recommended for people with severe heart failure when other treatments, like medications or surgeries, no longer work.