What is HeartNet?

HeartNet is a medical device made of a special Nitinol mesh that is placed permanently around both ventricles (the pumping chambers). It is designed to treat heart failure (also known as congestive heart failure, HF or CHF). HeartNet is investigational, meaning that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other international regulatory bodies have given permission to test the device for safety and effectiveness. Safety and feasibility trials have already been completed in the United States and Europe, with results that support the advancement to a larger clinical research study.

How is HeartNet put on the heart?

HeartNet is placed around the heart in a less-invasive surgical in-patient procedure using a mini-thoracotomy or sternal sparing approach that avoids a sternotomy. It typically takes less than 90 minutes to complete.

How does HeartNet work?

HeartNet is designed to gently support the heart by placing a light “squeeze” on the ventricles, or pumping chambers, of the heart. HeartNet may control the heart’s enlargement, thereby allowing the heart to work more efficiently and decreasing HF symptoms such as fatigue, swelling of the legs and chest pain. If symptoms decrease, patients may begin to enjoy an improved quality of life and be able to return to their day-to-day activities.

Can everybody with heart failure get a HeartNet?

In order to be eligible to participate in the clinical research study, patients have to meet what are called “inclusion criteria.” This means that all those accepted into the study must meet certain standards that are determined by the study protocol and approved by the FDA. To get more detail about the inclusion and exclusion criteria, you can read about the PEERLESS-HF clinical research study or call 1-866-344-0625.