RESUMEN
In patients with newly diagnosed heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) who are on a downward clinical trajectory, options are mostly limited to left ventricular assist device and transplantation. However, in those with factors favorable for reverse remodeling, every effort should be made to promote native myocardial recovery. We present three patients with newly diagnosed severe HFrEF, NYHA Class 3-4 symptoms, and low cardiac output with and without organ malperfusion. Ivabradine and/or home milrinone were used during their tenuous hemodynamic period as a bridge to optimize guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT), device therapy, and eventual reverse remodeling. Evidence of structural heart improvement continued far beyond 1 year.
RESUMEN
Background: Patients with chronic stimulant-induced cardiomyopathy presenting with cardiogenic shock can be stabilized with conventional measures. However, their management post-stabilization has not been well described and poses unique challenges: (i) less chance of myocardial recovery compared to acute stimulant-induced cardiomyopathy, (ii) psychosocial barriers to left ventricular assist device (LVAD) and heart transplantation, and (iii) concern for use of peripherally inserted central catheter for home inotrope in those with a history of substance abuse. Case summary: Three patients with chronic stimulant-induced cardiomyopathy were admitted with cardiogenic shock progressing to Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions stage D or E. They were stabilized with inotrope and/or biventricular mechanical circulatory support. Long-term home inotrope was used as either a bridge to LVAD, reverse remodelling, or stabilization. Discussion: Home inotrope should be viewed as an option in chronic stimulant-induced cardiomyopathy on a case-by-case basis. It can buy time to allow for myocardial stabilization or recovery through goal-directed medical therapy and stimulant cessation. It can also serve as a 'psychosocial stress test' for future consideration of advanced heart failure therapies.