Heart Failure

Heart failure (HF) doesn't mean an abrupt failure of the heart. HF is a dysfunction in the pumping action of the heart due to the heart's inability to contract or relax properly. Typically, the lower chambers of the heart (ventricles) do not beat efficiently, as they do in a healthy heart. Heart failure is an increasingly ineffective heart.

As heart failure progresses, the body attempts to compensate for it. In an attempt to improve pumping function, the heart increases its muscle mass (a process called remodeling). While the remodeled, enlarged heart does pump more blood initially, it eventually requires more oxygen than it can get, resulting in further damage. In addition, the walls of the remodeled heart stiffen, and pumping efficiency decreases. Another compensation mechanism is increased production of various neuro hormones, which can also ultimately further damage the heart.

The result of heart failure is the build-up of fluids, or congestion, throughout the body. People with heart failure can experience heart rhythm abnormalities and/or a lack of coordination in the contracting ventricles, both of which can be treated by device therapy.