PREVIEW
A number of surgical procedures, including reduction ventriculoplasty, transmyocardial laser revascularization, dynamic cardiomyoplasty, and insertion of partial or total heart assist devices, are available for managing patients with severe, chronic congestive heart failure. In this article, Dr Jayakar discusses and classifies various treatment options and outlines the role each plays in maintaining cardiac function in patients who live with this debilitating condition.