26/06/2024

Researchers at the Medical University of Innsbruck have pioneered a shock wave therapy combined with bypass surgery, significantly improving the heart's pumping function by revitalizing dormant heart muscle cells. This therapy, which stimulates the growth of new blood vessels, is set to revolutionize the treatment of chronic heart muscle weakness.

Johannes Holfeld (r) holds the shock wave device in his hand during a bypass operation. Copyright: University Clinic for Cardiac Surgery/MUI

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Key Benefits

Improved Cardiac Function: The therapy enhances the heart's pumping ability.
Regeneration of Heart Muscle Cells: Reactivates inactive cells and promotes the formation of new blood vessels.

Image: Johannes Holfeld (r) performs shock wave therapy on the heart muscle during a bypass operation; Copyright: University Clinic for Cardiac Surgery/MUI

Johannes Holfeld (r) performs shock wave therapy on the heart muscle during a bypass operation. Copyright: University Clinic for Cardiac Surgery/MUI

Clinical Study and Future Prospects

The European Heart Journal has published the results of a clinical study conducted by the University Clinic for Cardiac Surgery. "For the first time, it is possible to substantially and sustainably improve the heart muscle," says Michael Grimm, Director of the University Clinic for Cardiac Surgery. The shock wave device developed in Innsbruck is expected to be available on the market by early 2025.

Johannes Holfeld, project leader at the University Clinic for Cardiac Surgery, emphasizes the potential of this innovative therapy: "The combination of shock wave treatment with conventional surgery opens new avenues for cardiac care."

How It Works

Combined Therapy: The shock wave treatment is applied during a bypass operation, directly targeting the heart muscle.
Device and Procedure: The device, held by the surgeon during the operation, delivers precise shock waves to the heart tissue.

International Recognition

The international relevance of this innovation is underscored by coverage from major media outlets like the BBC, highlighting its potential global impact on cardiac care.

The introduction of shock wave therapy in cardiac surgery marks a significant advancement in treating heart muscle weakness, offering new hope for patients through enhanced and lasting improvements in heart function.

MEDICA-tradefair.com; Source: Medical University of Innsbruck

More about Medical University of Innsbruck at: www.i-med.ac.at