Clinical Perspective of Myocardial Recovery and Improvement: Definitions, Prevalence, and Relevance

Anthony V. Pensa, Veronica Zheng, Lucia Davis, Rebecca W. Harap, Jane E. Wilcox*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Partial or complete imaging resolution of left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) has gone by many names in the past few decades, including LV recovery, remission, reverse remodeling, and, most recently, improvement. This phenomenon has been described in a variety of clinical scenarios, including removal of an acute myocardial insult, unloading with durable LV assist devices, and treatment with various devices as well as pharmacotherapies, termed guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT). Irrespective of definition, systolic improvement is associated with improved clinical outcomes compared to persistent systolic dysfunction. In the past few years, systolic improvement has been distinguished from HFrEF as a new clinical entity referred to as HF with improved EF (HFimpEF). Given the relative novelty of this condition, there is a paucity of data with regard to the clinical trajectory and management of this population. In this review, we describe the history of myocardial improvement terminology and explore notable findings that have led to the delineation of HFimpEF. Additionally, we highlight the importance of understanding LV trajectory and the potential opportunity for new GDMT management for clinicians when treating patients with HFimpEF.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)6-15
Number of pages10
JournalMethodist DeBakey cardiovascular journal
Volume20
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 2024

Keywords

  • heart failure trajectory
  • heart failure with improved ejection fraction
  • left ventricular reverse remodeling
  • myocardial improvement
  • myocardial recovery

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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