Barostim Therapy for Advanced Heart Failure in New Jersey

How Barostim Works

Barostim therapy targets baroreceptors, which are natural pressure sensors located in the carotid artery in the neck. These receptors help regulate blood pressure and cardiovascular function by sending signals to the brain.

In patients with heart failure, this signaling system can become imbalanced, leading to increased stress on the heart and blood vessels.

The Barostim device delivers controlled electrical pulses to these receptors, helping to restore balance in the nervous system. This can result in:

• Relaxation of blood vessels
• Reduced workload on the heart
• Improved circulation

Benefits of Barostim Therapy

Clinical studies have shown that Barostim therapy may provide meaningful improvements for patients with heart failure, including:

• Improved quality of life and daily functioning
• Increased ability to perform physical activity
• Reduction in symptoms such as fatigue and shortness of breath
• Improved markers of heart stress

Who is a Candidate for Barostim?

Barostim therapy is intended for patients with advanced heart failure who continue to experience symptoms despite optimal medical therapy.

Patients may be candidates if they:

• Have heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (LVEF 35% or less)
• Are classified as NYHA Class II or III
• Continue to experience symptoms that impact daily life
• Meet specific clinical criteria, including appropriate NT-proBNP levels

Barostim may be appropriate for patients who already have a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD).

A comprehensive evaluation by a cardiology specialist is required to determine eligibility.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Barostim implantation is a minimally invasive procedure that is typically completed in about one hour.

During the procedure

• A small incision is made in the neck to place a lead on the carotid artery
• A second incision is made in the upper chest to implant the device/li>
• The system is connected and tested to ensure proper function

Many patients are able to return home the same day or shortly after the procedure.

Recovery and Follow-Up

After implantation, patients will have follow-up visits to adjust the device settings and monitor progress.

Ongoing care typically includes:

• Routine follow-up appointments
• Periodic device adjustments
• Long-term monitoring of heart failure symptoms

Most patients can resume normal daily activities following recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions