Device-based therapies for decompensated heart failure

Abstract

Purpose of review 

Despite improvements in medical therapies, patients with heart failure continue to suffer significant morbidity and mortality. Acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) remains a common and serious medical condition with a myriad of implications on patient survival and quality of life, and heart failure related readmissions persist [1–3].

Recent findings 

From the detection of prehospitalization decompensation and inpatient management of ADHF to stabilization of cardiogenic shock and durable mechanical circulatory support, device-based therapies are utilized across the spectrum of heart failure management. At present, there are numerous device-based therapies commonly used in clinical practice and many more devices in the early clinical-trial phase aimed at attenuation of ADHF.

Summary 

In this review, we examine recent updates in the breadth and use of devices-based therapies in these three main domains: ambulatory heart failure, acute decompensated heart failure, and cardiogenic shock. Device-based therapies for decompensated heart failure will continue to grow in number, indication, and complexity, making recognition and familiarity with available technologies of increased importance for research and clinical practice.