Ventricular reduction

Ventricular reduction is a surgical procedure aimed at reducing the size of the left ventricle in patients with heart failure. This procedure is typically performed on patients with dilated cardiomyopathy or ischemic heart disease who have developed a large, dilated left ventricle. The goal of ventricular reduction is to improve the heart's pumping efficiency and alleviate symptoms of heart failure.

Procedure

The ventricular reduction procedure, also known as cardiomyoplasty, involves removing a portion of the heart muscle from the left ventricle. This is done through a thoracotomy, a surgical incision into the chest wall. The surgeon then sutures the remaining heart muscle together, effectively reducing the size of the left ventricle.

Indications

Ventricular reduction is typically indicated for patients with severe heart failure who have not responded to medical therapy or other surgical interventions. These patients often have a dilated left ventricle due to dilated cardiomyopathy or ischemic heart disease.

Risks and Complications

Like all surgical procedures, ventricular reduction carries certain risks and potential complications. These include bleeding, infection, arrhythmia, and the potential need for a pacemaker following surgery. There is also a risk of reduced heart function if too much heart muscle is removed.

Outcomes

Studies have shown that ventricular reduction can improve symptoms of heart failure and increase quality of life for patients. However, further research is needed to determine the long-term outcomes and potential benefits of this procedure.

See Also

• Heart failure
• Dilated cardiomyopathy
• Ischemic heart disease
• Thoracotomy
• Cardiomyoplasty