Implanted pumps improve the lives of terminally ill heart patients, study shows

Implanted heart pumps can extend and improve the quality of life for terminally ill heart failure patients, according to a three-year study conducted by UI Heart and Vascular Center researchers in conjunction with colleagues at 21 other major medical centers.

"Our involvement in this clinical trial means we are well equipped and trained to bring this breakthrough technology to our patients," said Wayne Richenbacher, M.D., a cardiothoracic surgeon who coordinated the UI Heart and Vascular Center portion of the trial at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

The Randomized Evaluation of Mechanical Assistance for the Treatment of Congestive Heart Failure (REMATCH) trial found that an implanted heart pump with a wearable control system more than doubled the likelihood terminally ill heart failure patients would be alive at the end of one year. Patients enrolled in the trial were not considered to be candidates for a heart transplant.

"Not only did the patients survive longer, but they felt much better and could enjoy their lives more," Richenbacher said. "Typically, these patients are the 'sickest of the sick' and are often so debilitated that they can't work, are frequently hospitalized, and may become exhausted following even minimal exertion."

Results from the REMATCH study were published in the New England Journal of Medicine and presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions. The trial is the largest of its kind to compare the use of Thoratec's HeartMate VE implantable left ventricular assist device to optimal medical management, which consists of drug therapy, diet management, and exercise.

"This therapeutic option could benefit up to 100,000 people who are terminally ill with end-stage heart failure, for whom transplant is not a clinically realistic option," Richenbacher said.

People seeking more information on the HeartMate heart assist device or the cardiac programs at UI Heart and Vascular Center can visit the UI Heart and Vascular Center or Thoratec® Corporation websites. Interested persons may also call UI Health Access or Heart Failure Treatment Program at 319-356-1028.