Chronic Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction

Episode overview

Chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, or HFrEF, is a form of systolic heart failure caused by impaired left ventricular contractility and an ejection fraction of 40% or less. In this episode, we review the classic symptoms and physical exam findings of HFrEF, common causes including ischemic heart disease and dilated cardiomyopathy, the role of echocardiography and BNP, the major disease-modifying medications for chronic HFrEF, why loop diuretics improve symptoms but not mortality, and when to consider an ICD or cardiac resynchronization therapy.