In some cases of heart failure, it is thought to be linked to ones own immune system in that it causes damaging inflammation to its own tissue. This then weakens the heart even further and inhibits its contractility and efficiency.

The Methodist Hospital in Houston, Texas has completed a study on over 1000 participants. They have attempted to reduce inflammation by “damping down” ones immune system.

The method involved taking blood from the patients, and exposing it to chemicals designed to change some of the body’s own immune signals, and boost anti-inflammatory signals. This kind of approach is called “immunomodulation”.

In certain patients with heart failure, the ones that did not have a heart attack, there was between 25% and 39% decrease in risk of death. That is certainly marginal enough to warrant more research. I suspect that we will see more of this in the near future.

via BBC.com

Post from: Blisstree

Immune Therapy For Heart Failure Patients

The maker of Vioxx has agreed to pay $4.85bn to settle legal claims that the controversial drug caused many users to suffer strokes and heart failure.

Holy Potatoes is what I have to say. But I guess it could have been far worse when you really stop and think about it. In order to qualify for compensation you must prove that you suffered serious illness at the most 2 weeks after you purchased the drug.

The above amount of money will be able to settle over 90% of Vioxx lawsuits with the exception of class action suits. Like I said, it could have been worse for Merck.
via Science Daily

Post from: Blisstree

Merck Set To Pay $4.85 Billion To Settle On Vioxx Lawsuits

The pump is implanted into the patient’s body and pumps blood from the weakened left ventricle to the rest of the body at the same rate as a healthy heart. In addition to helping 75 percent of patients stay alive for at least six months, or until a donor heart becomes available, the device assists patients’ original hearts regain function, thereby allowing other organs to heal by restoring blood flow.

The device is about the size of a “D” sized battery which will allow it to help patients both big and small and male and female. Pretty cool!

via Science Daily

Post from: Blisstree

Heart Failure Pump Developed

The prototype Bluetooth heart monitor periodically records an electrocardiogram (ECG) of the wearer’s heart and transmits the information via radio frequency signals to his or her modified mobile phone. If signs of imminent heart failure are detected, the phone analyzes the ECG signal and sends a message via the SMS text service to the nearest medical center.

Oh my goodness… Is this not really cool? The device was designed to give patients that have already experienced a heart attack the peace of mind and psychological well being while they proceed forward with everyday life. It is mobile and will allow you to be totally independent.

The researchers are currently working to integrate global-positioning system (GPS) technology for the phone, so any medical center can quickly pinpoint the patient in need. This will increase the chance of survival for the patients that choose to use this wearable device. I get so excited! Technology is beautiful.

via Forbes.com

Post from: Blisstree

“Bluetooth” Type Device Can Warn Hospitals Of Potential Heart Attack Patients