Heart Failure
Heart failure (HF) remains a significant challenge in modern cardiovascular medicine, posing substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide. The patient population with end-stage heart failure worldwide is 64M. In Europe alone, approximately 780,000 deaths each year are due to heart failure[1].
Ventricle assist devices (VADs) play a pivotal role in the management of advanced HF. These sophisticated devices, surgically implanted into the failing heart, serve to either partially or completely assist cardiac function.
VAD Challenges
High-cost (45-120 Eur/device)
Complexity
External power need, driveline infections
Bulky power supplies, limiting patient mobility and quality of life
No VAD specifically designed for right heart failure.
All current therapies are palliative and result in uncontrolled gradual worsening of the cardiovascular system,[4] particularly the RHF following any VAD.
The Importance of RVAD for Right Heart Failure Patients
The right heart failure is the least studied, complex and most burdensome disease and it is called unforgotten heart. RHF poses unique pathophysiological complexities and requires tailored therapeutic interventions to optimize patient outcomes.
Right Ventricular Assist Devices (RVADs) play a pivotal role in the comprehensive management of RHF patients, and we are offering a self-powered, patient-specific and effective therapeutic approach to address the unique challenges posed by right ventricular dysfunction.
[1] Shahim B, et. al, Global Public Health Burden of Heart Failure: An Updated Review. Card Fail Rev. 2023 Jul 27;9:e11.
[2] Riggs, K.W. and D.L.S. Morales, J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg, 2018. 156(5).
[3] Zijderhand CF et. al, LVAD related infections and the risk of cerebrovascular accidents: a EUROMACS study. Eur J Cardiothorac Surg. 2022 Oct 4;62(5).
[4] Schlöglhofer T et. al., It's not only the pump: Assess. of human factors of wearable comp. and user exp. of patients with LVADs. J Heart Lung Trans. 2023.