|
The medical management of patients is crucial in treating heart failure. Weakening of the left ventricle increases pressures in the pulmonary veins and arteries leading to congestion of the lungs and shortness of breath. To learn more about Pulmonary Hypertension click here. These pressures are normally measured during an angioplasty procedure using a balloon tipped catheter advanced from a large vein. The catheter is inserted into the pulmonary artery, once in position it’s inflated, causing a small balloon at the end of the catheter to inflate which makes it possible to measure the pressure within the artery. Although very accurate the procedure is invasive and requires a visit to the hospital.
 |
|
A clinical study is now available to assess the efficacy of a device designed to measure pulmonary pressures as often as desired without repeat catheterizations. When measured however, the pulmonary artery device provides the most accurate guide to increase or decrease heart failure medicines to improve symptoms of heart failure. The device; measuring 45mm in length with a 15mm body and two looped antennae, emits information without batteries or leads to electronics which read the information. Although it requires initial hospitalization, additional readings are done at home through a flat, pillow like electronic device which receives the information. The reading is painless and has no sensation when reading occurs. The information is then sent to a secure online database where a doctor can then treat the patient accordingly.
All participants in the study receive a sensor implant and are discharged home with the required equipment to take readings. Patients are assigned into two groups, Treatment group and Control group. The treatment groups readings are reviewed by their doctors and patients are treated accordingly. The control group’s readings are not seen by their physicians and are treated as if they do not have a sensor.
|
