A fluid situation in Ohio yields innovative new sensor to address heart failure
The U.S. has more than 6 million people living with heart failure, and many of them are hospitalized with symptoms such as excess fluid retention, which can result in shortness of breath. Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center is trying something new which can help patients and reduce hospitalizations.
The hospital is the first in the state to participate in a trial using a new sensor that can help patients monitor their fluid levels. The sensor is implanted during a minimally invasive procedure, and patients can be discharged the same day.
"This technology directly measures the volume of fluid buildup and alerts the patient and health care provider of a change," said Rami Kahwash, M.D., director of Ohio State’s heart and vascular research and professor of clinical medicine. "Heart failure patients begin to retain fluid a few weeks before experiencing symptoms. Early intervention can help prevent emergency department visits and hospitalization."