According to the CDC, more than 6.5 million Americans have heart failure, and it is a contributing factor in 1 in 8 deaths. Caught in its earliest stages, heart failure can be reversed or slowed through lifestyle modification and medication. For many patients, early intervention can dramatically slow or even halt disease progression. For those whose condition continues to deteriorate, Deborah Specialty Physicians offers expertise for treating the most advanced and complex heart failure cases.

We offer patients some of the most complex treatments available for advanced heart failure.

We are experts in managing patients throughout each stage of advancing heart failure, with medications, therapies, and devices to support the function of the heart. At the most severe stages, we have access to the most complex tools, including:

• ECMO stands for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. The ECMO machine (sometimes referred to as “dialysis for the heart”) is similar to the heart-lung bypass machine used in open-heart surgery. It pumps and oxygenates a patient’s blood outside the body, allowing the heart and lungs to rest. Deborah is one of only two hospitals in South Jersey offering ECMO for heart failure.
• LVAD, or left ventricular assist device, is a mechanical pump that is implanted inside a person’s chest to help a weakened heart pump blood. Unlike a total artificial heart, the LVAD doesn’t replace the heart. It just helps it to continue doing its job. Deborah is one of only 6 certified LVAD programs in NJ.

At the center of our services is our ability to embrace change in a way only a dynamic leader can, not by simply adapting, but by taking a leadership role in research, education and patient care programs that improve the quality of life for all those at risk of or affected by advanced heart failure.