Heart failure (HF) is a multifaceted condition with varying causes and clinical manifestations, complicating the prediction of outcomes using traditional metrics like left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF).
A recent study published at ESC Heart Failure, led by researchers at Inselspital Bern, in collaboration with Epistudia, provides valuable insights into the association between LVEF and mortality, while exploring key factors such as sex differences and comorbidities.
Key Findings:LVEF and Mortality: The study examined a cohort of 5,824 HF patients admitted to Inselspital Bern, a leading tertiary care hospital in Switzerland. With a median follow-up of four years, the study found no significant association between LVEF categories (HFpEF, HFmrEF, and HFrEF) and mortality rates, suggesting that LVEF alone may not be a sufficient predictor of mortality risk in HF patients.
Sex Differences: Women with HF exhibited significantly higher mortality rates compared to men. This finding highlights the importance of considering sex-specific factors in HF management.
HFpEF and Short-Term Mortality: The study revealed a lower 30-day mortality rate in patients with HFpEF, particularly in men and non-diabetics. However, this protective effect was less pronounced in the long term.
Implications:
These findings challenge the traditional LVEF-based classification of HF and emphasize the need for a more comprehensive approach. Future research should focus on exploring the potential of novel imaging techniques to enhance the prognostic value of LVEF in HF. Additionally, studies should consider factors such as acute versus chronic HF, inpatient versus outpatient care, sex and gender differences, and objective measures beyond LVEF to provide a more comprehensive characterization of HF.
For more information, read the full study
here 
