Revolutionary Shockwave Therapy Shows Promise in Regenerating Heart Tissue
VIENNA — In a groundbreaking study conducted in Austria, researchers have discovered that gentle shockwaves could potentially regenerate the heart tissue of patients post-bypass surgery, offering hope to millions around the world.
The study, which involved 63 participants, showed that individuals who received the new shockwave treatment were able to walk further and experienced improved heart function, with their hearts pumping more blood.
Professor Johannes Holfeld, from Innsbruck Medical University, expressed his excitement, stating, “For the first time, we are seeing the heart muscle regenerate in a clinical setting, which could help millions of people.”
Following the success of this initial trial, larger trials of the device, nicknamed a “space hairdryer” by researchers, are now in the works to validate the results on a broader scale.
Heart disease remains a leading cause of death globally, claiming the lives of 18 million people each year, according to the World Health Organization. Risk factors such as high blood pressure, unhealthy diet, tobacco, and alcohol use contribute to the prevalence of the condition.
While there is currently no cure for heart disease, treatments and medications can help manage the disease and reduce the risk of heart attacks. In severe cases, bypass surgery is performed to preserve heart function, but it does not improve it.
Researchers in Austria are pioneering a new approach to regenerate damaged heart tissue using mild soundwaves post-bypass surgery. The therapy aims to stimulate the growth of new vessels around scarred areas following a heart attack.
Similar shockwave techniques are already utilized in treating conditions like injured tendons, ligaments, and erectile dysfunction. Additionally, lithotripsy uses higher-strength waves to break up kidney stones.
Professor Johannes Holfeld and his team in Innsbruck are at the forefront of utilizing shockwave therapy to treat heart disease, with promising results from their recent study published in the European Heart Journal.
Participants who received shockwave therapy post-bypass surgery showed a significant increase in the amount of oxygenated blood pumped by the heart compared to those who did not receive the treatment. They also reported improved quality of life and were able to walk further without resting.
Dr. Sonya Babu-Narayan, associate medical director at the British Heart Foundation, highlighted the potential of shockwave therapy in enhancing heart function and reducing symptoms in heart disease patients. She emphasized the need for larger and longer trials to evaluate the long-term effects of the treatment.
The researchers anticipate that European regulators will approve the device later this year, with plans to implement it in clinical settings by 2025. The study was funded by Austrian government departments, the US National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, and a company associated with Innsbruck Medical University. — BBC
