A new procedure is being offered at Centra that utilizes technology to reduce symptoms of congestive heart failure. Formally known as Barostim-Baroflex Activation Therapy (BAT), Barostim is a treatment option for patients with congestive heart failure who experience ejection fraction of under 35%. Ejection fraction is the amount of blood the left ventricle of the heart pumps out with each contraction. When the ejection fraction drops below 40%, the heart is not pumping sufficient blood which can lead to an individual not being able to complete regular activities without assistance or frequent breaks.
A relatively new treatment option, Barostim device implantation is completed by inserting a small device approximately the size of a pacemaker into a skin flap on the right side of the patient’s chest. From this device, a lead is tunneled to the Carotid Artery and sutured to the artery.
The device delivers electric impulses through the lead to the nerve endings of the Carotid Artery which results in an increase of parasympathetic sensation. An increase in parasympathetic sensation causes the heart to pump more blood and combat the symptoms of congestive heart failure. The non-invasive, outpatient procedure takes approximately 45 minutes to complete.
Improved quality of life for patients is one of the reasons why Centra is excited to begin offering this procedure for community members who have congestive heart failure. One study found that over 50% of patients who had Barostim-Baroflex Activation Therapy were able to reduce the number of medications they were taking for the treatment of their heart failure symptoms. The simple outpatient procedure makes it possible for individuals to walk their dog without becoming seriously out of breath or play with their grandkids instead of only watching from a nearby bench.
Centra’s first patient to undergo the procedure, Bill Jenkins, often chose to pass on family activities prior to undergoing the procedure. After Dr. Matthew Sackett recommended the Barostim-Baroflex Activation Therapy to Jenkins and Dr. David Cassada performed the surgery at Centra Lynchburg Hospital (LGH), Jenkins has experienced an improved quality of life. He shared, “for an old man, feeling normal and more energetic is a good thing!"