New Barostim Device Gives Hope to Failing Hearts: Improving Quality of Life for Millions with Heart Disease

Heart failure affects nearly 6.5 million Americans, with 960,000 new cases diagnosed each year. While medication can help many patients, some may need a heart transplant if other treatments do not work. However, a new device called Barostim is offering hope to those with failing hearts.

Dr. Richard Jantz, a cardiologist at Aurora Denver Cardiology Associates, explains that weak heart muscle can lead to progressive dysfunction or sudden death. Heart disease is a prevalent issue in the United States, with one person dying from it every 33 seconds and making it the leading cause of death for both men and women.

Treatment options for heart failure include medication, stents, bypass surgery, and pacemakers. Barostim is a new approach that works alongside heart failure medication to improve heart function. The device is implanted just under the skin and stimulates the carotid sinus, helping to regulate adrenaline levels and vagal tone to reduce the workload on the heart.

By activating the baroreceptors responsible for regulating heart, kidney, and vascular function, Barostim can help the heart pump more effectively. Dr. Jantz notes that the device can improve quality of life, reduce the risk of hospitalization, and decrease the likelihood of needing a heart transplant or ventricular assist device.

Eric Berkowitz shares how he received the Barostim device and how it improved his ability to walk without getting out of breath. The outpatient procedure is FDA-approved and has shown promising results in improving quality of life for patients with failing hearts.

In conclusion, Barostim provides new hope for those with failing hearts by working alongside existing treatment options to improve heart function and quality of life. As research continues on this promising technology, patients may have even more options available to them in their fight against heart disease.