Allegheny General Hospital (AGH) in Pittsburgh, part of the Allegheny Health Network (AHN), has begun enrolling patients in an international clinical trial to assess a new atrial shunt therapy for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). This investigational therapy aims to reduce hospitalizations and symptoms related to HFpEF, a condition that affects over half of all heart failure patients.
Dr. Hayah Kassis-George, a cardiologist at AHN Cardiovascular Institute, is leading the trial at AGH. “Cardiovascular medicine doesn’t yet have a reliable suite of effective therapies for this particular patient population,” she stated. The RESPONDER-HF trial is exploring a novel treatment from Corvia Medical Inc., with more than 65 medical centers worldwide participating.
The trial involves a minimally invasive procedure where an atrial shunt is inserted to alleviate pressure in the left ventricle, potentially improving symptoms like fatigue and breathlessness. A previous study published in Circulation showed promising results with significant reductions in heart failure events and improvements in quality of life for certain patients.
Stephen Bailey, MD, Chair of AHN Cardiovascular Institute, expressed pride in the team’s efforts: “We’re extremely proud of our incredible heart failure team, and their tireless work to participate in clinical trials and research that aim to advance therapies for patients whose options may be limited.”
For further details on eligibility for this trial, individuals can contact 412-359-4631.
