Device treatment of heart failure

Abstract

Background: The incidence of heart failure (HF) is rapidly increasing, introducing a significant burden and challenges in clinical practice. Non-pharmacological cardiac device therapy has been established as an essential component of optimal HF management, particularly for the prevention of sudden cardiac death and the improvement of HF symptoms, left ventricular (LV) systolic function, quality of life, and eventually survival.Current Concepts: Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) can correct atrioventricular or inter/intraventricular dyssynchrony, thereby improving LV systolic function. Recently, the concept of CRT is being expanded, including His bundle (HB), HB-optimized LV, left bundle branch (LBB), and LBB optimized LV pacing CRTs. Newly introduced CRT approaches by stimulating the cardiac conduction system are expected to correct dyssynchrony better and consequently exhibit better CRT outcomes than the conventional biventricular pacing CRT. The current versions of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) or CRT devices can continuously monitor multiple biosignals. CRT/ICD can calculate a single index by combining these multiple bio-signal data for early detection of HF aggravation. Recently, subcutaneous and transvenous ICDs showed comparable safety and efficacy in HF patients. In drug-refractory HF patients without LV dyssynchrony, cardiac contractility modulation therapy provides some promising results.Discussion and Conclusion: Recent technological advancements have improved the efficacy and safety of cardiac device therapy. Therefore, cardiac device therapy should be used more actively to manage HF patients better.