What is myocardial resection?

Myocardial resection, also known as partial ventriculectomy, is a surgical procedure in which a portion of the damaged heart muscle (myocardium) is removed. It is typically used to treat a condition known as ischemic cardiomyopathy, which occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough blood supply, leading to significant scarring and weakening.

During myocardial resection, the surgeon removes the scarred or damaged tissue from the heart, aiming to improve the overall function of the remaining healthy heart muscle. This procedure is often combined with coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or other interventions to restore blood flow to the heart.

Myocardial resection can benefit patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy by:

1. Reducing the size of the enlarged heart: The procedure can help reduce the volume of the heart, making it more efficient at pumping blood.

2. Improving the shape of the heart: Removing the scarred tissue can improve the heart's overall structure, allowing for better contraction and relaxation.

3. Preserving healthy heart muscle: By excising the damaged areas, the healthy tissue is preserved, which can improve overall heart function.

4. Alleviating symptoms: Reducing the burden of heart failure symptoms, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain.

Myocardial resection is a complex surgical procedure that requires careful planning and expertise. The decision to undergo the procedure is based on the patient's individual circumstances and the extent of heart damage. It is typically considered after other treatment options, such as medication and lifestyle changes, have proven insufficient in managing the condition.