Batista procedure

Batista Procedure

The Batista Procedure is a surgical technique used in the treatment of dilated cardiomyopathy, a condition characterized by the enlargement and weakening of the heart's left ventricle, the main pumping chamber. Named after the Brazilian cardiac surgeon Randas Batista who developed it in the 1990s, this procedure aims to improve the heart's function by reducing the size of the dilated ventricle.

Overview

Dilated cardiomyopathy can lead to heart failure, where the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently, causing symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and fluid accumulation in the body. The Batista Procedure is considered when conventional treatments, such as medication, fail to alleviate these symptoms.

Procedure

The Batista Procedure involves the removal of a portion of the left ventricular muscle. This reduction in the size of the ventricle is intended to help the heart contract more effectively, thereby improving its pumping ability. The surgery requires open-heart surgery and is performed under general anesthesia.

Indications

The primary indication for the Batista Procedure is severe dilated cardiomyopathy with symptomatic heart failure that is refractory to medical therapy. It is considered a last resort for patients who are not candidates for heart transplantation.

Risks and Complications

As with any major surgery, the Batista Procedure carries risks, including infection, bleeding, and the potential need for a heart transplant if the surgery does not improve heart function. There is also a risk of arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats, which can be life-threatening.

Outcomes

The outcomes of the Batista Procedure have been mixed. Some patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms and quality of life, while others may see little benefit. The procedure has largely fallen out of favor due to the development of more effective treatments, such as ventricular assist devices and advances in heart transplant techniques.

Current Status

Today, the Batista Procedure is rarely performed, with medical and technological advancements providing alternative treatment options for patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. However, it remains a notable surgical technique in the history of cardiac surgery.

See Also

• Cardiomyopathy
• Heart failure
• Ventricular assist device
• Heart transplant