If you or a loved one has received a heart failure diagnosis, you might feel worried and overwhelmed. Heart failure is a serious diagnosis. At UVA Health, you have options.
Heart Failure Care Without the Hassle of Travel
We can work with healthcare providers near you if traveling to UVA is inconvenient. You can schedule lab work, sleep studies, and echocardiograms closer to home.
If you have a device implant, you can see the device team the same day you see the heart failure team. That means fewer trips for appointments.
And if you need to be in the hospital, we have a unit with dedicated heart failure nurses.
Nationally Recognized Heart Failure Care
Our heart failure program won two national awards from the American Heart Association. We're recognized for the quality and effectiveness of our treatment guidelines.
And, our heart failure care is ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. UVA Health's heart failure services received a score of "high performing," the highest rating for condition and procedure care.
Full Range of Heart Failure Care
Our heart failure program offers a full range of treatment options:
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Medications
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Device therapy (pacemakers, ICDs, LVAD, and ECMO)
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Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs)
Treating Heart Failure With Implanted Devices
Implanted Defibrillators
Implantable cardiac defibrillators (ICD) are small, battery-powered devices. They generate electrical impulses and keep both ventricles of your heart working together.
High-Tech Pacemakers
Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy uses a special pacemaker to synch the left and right ventricles. Sometimes we combine this with an implantable cardiac defibrillator.
Mechanical-Assist Devices
A number of pumps can help your heart manage blood flow. These include:
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An intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP)
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Temporary pumps that stabilize your heart in the hospital
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Ventricular assist devices (VADs)
The Heart Transplant Alternative
Ventricle assist devices, or VADs, improve your health, reduce symptoms, and give you more energy. At UVA, you’ll find a program that has earned special designation for providing VAD therapy.
Some people with end-stage heart failure can’t get a heart transplant. They’re just too sick. If this describes you, don’t lose hope. You may qualify for “destination therapy VADs.” This mechanical heart device keeps your heart moving, so you can, too.
Heart Monitor to Prevent Problems: CardioMEMS
CardioMEMS measures the pressure in your heart. This small, wireless sensor can send info to your doctor. That alerts us to any issues before they become problems. You'll avoid hospital visits and rest easy as you live your life.
Heart Failure Treatment at UVA
James Bergin, MD, discusses heart failure and the treatments available at UVA. View heart failure transcript.