Surgical options for the management of ischemic cardiomyopathy

Opinion statement: Novel surgical alternatives and the refinement of conventional surgical therapies for the treatment of ischemic cardiomyopathy are in constant evolution. Current approaches involve the determined application of the appropriateness criteria for CABG surgery, the extension of mitral valve repair to complex patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy, finding appropriate patients who might benefit from surgical ventricular reconstruction, and surgical attempts to regenerate lost or damaged myocardium with transplanted stem cells. The refinement of surgical techniques and the medical optimization of candidates for surgery remain a cornerstone of management for patients with complex heart disease like ischemic cardiomyopathy. The horizon is bright for patients suffering from this condition and concentrated research efforts by groups such as the NHLBI-sponsored Cardiothoracic Surgery Network will have a major impact on the future of patients with heart disease.