Heart Failure

Even if one survives a heart attack, the formation of thick scar tissue can increase the chance of heart failure. Now researchers have found a way to improve the quality of scar tissue in animal models, resulting in improved heart function.

Two new studies are offering insights into the long-term effects of intermittent fasting on human health. The research suggests fasting for just one day a month, over many years, can lengthen lifespan and enhance heart health – but there are caveats.

A new AI diagnostic method, using a neural network, can accurately identify congestive heart failure instantly by checking ECG data from just one heartbeat.

A new high-tech "chest mat" has been designed to coach users through the cardiopulmonary resuscitation process.

​We've already heard how electrical pulses have been shown to help heal wounds, by promoting tissue growth. An experimental new implant uses that same principle to aid in the regeneration of cardiac tissue, potentially postponing or even eliminating the need for heart transplants.

​Atrial fibrillation is the most common type of irregular heartbeat, potentially leading to serious outcomes such as strokes if left untreated. Unfortunately, it's difficult to detect in its early stages. An international team of scientists is hoping to help, with a prototype wrist-worn device.

​In the not-too-distant future, when congestive heart failure patients are being released from hospital, they may be given a special toilet seat to take home. That device would measure their vital signs every time they sit on it, sending alerts if more heart trouble was detected.

A newly developed smartphone app has shown promise for determining if a person is suffering from a serious heart attack. A study into the app's accuracy revealed it was almost as effective as a traditional electrocardiogram (ECG)​ at identifying a serious form of heart attack.

​After a heart attack occurs, non-beating scar tissue forms on the part of the organ that was affected – and this can lead to heart failure. There could be new hope, however, in the form of an implanted device that delivers medication directly to that tissue.

A new blood test that can rapidly diagnose heart attacks has undergone further testing verifying it can nearly immediately identify whether a patient has had a heart attack or not.

​According to The Ohio State University, over half of all patients who are treated for heart failure end up back in the hospital within six months, due to fluid buildup in their lungs. Sensible Medical has set out to change that, however, with a wearable device known as the SensiVest.

​When someone has a cardiac arrest, their chance of survival decreases by 10 percent for every minute that passes before they receive treatment. That's why an app has been created, that finds civilians who are trained in CPR and gets them to the location of cardiac arrest victims.