Dilated cardiomyopathy treatment at Assaf Harofeh Medical Center in Be'er Ya'akov, Israel, focuses on advanced heart failure management and mechanical circulatory support. As a JCI-accredited government facility affiliated with Tel Aviv University, the hospital uses evidence-based protocols and investigational procedures to improve heart function. The cardiology system and Heart Institute are led by Prof. Shmuel Fuchs, who directs the specialized care for patients with reduced heart pumping capacity.
Diagnostics for dilated cardiomyopathy
Accurate assessment is the first step in managing heart muscle weakness. The clinic provides a focused diagnostic path to determine the extent of ventricular enlargement and dysfunction:
- Cardiology consultation. A specialist review of medical history and symptoms.
- Echocardiography. Ultrasound to measure the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF).
- NT-proBNP blood test. A lab test to check for biomarkers of heart failure.
- Imaging scans. Detailed views of the heart structure using cardiac MRI, CT, or ultrasound.
Medical and investigational treatments
The primary treatment for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) follows a strict four-drug protocol. This combination includes ARNI, beta-blockers, MRA, and SGLT2i medications. This medical therapy helps reduce mortality by about 73% compared to receiving no treatment. For patients who remain symptomatic despite optimal medication, the hospital offers participation in clinical trials such as the ALLAY-HFrEF study.
One such option is the ALV1 Alleviant interatrial shunt. This procedure creates a permanent opening between the heart chambers without using a stent or implant. This helps lower pressure in the left atrium and may reduce future heart failure events.
Mechanical support and surgical procedures
Assaf Harofeh Medical Center was a pioneer of ECMO in Israel and maintains 21 operating rooms for complex cardiac interventions. The facility provides several mechanical options for severe cases:
- Magenta Elevate pLVAD. A temporary pump inserted through the femoral artery without surgery. It supports the heart for 7 days by pumping up to 5.4 liters of blood per minute.
- ECMO. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation provides life-saving support by oxygenating blood outside the body. This allows the heart and lungs time to rest and recover.
- Left ventricular pacing lead placement. A surgical procedure for cardiac resynchronization. A lead is attached to the left ventricle to help the heart chambers beat in a coordinated way.
To learn more about heart failure protocols or available clinical trials at this center, you may request a consultation through Bookimed.
Individual treatment program and cost estimate
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