Driven by the clinical need and the lack of regenerative therapies in routine clinical practice, we investigated the biological effects of direct cardiac shockwave therapy (SWT) on myocardial regeneration. Shockwave therapy induces tissue regeneration in infarcted heart muscle and thereby significantly improves heart function (i.e. ventricular ejection fraction).
The results of the CAST-HF Trial have been published in the European Heart Journal, demonstrating the potential of shockwave therapy in patients with ischemic heart failure.
In order to prove the effectiveness of shockwave therapy for cardiac indications, numerous small and large animal trials of our academic research partners helped us to elucidate the exact molecular working mechanism of the new technology. Safety and feasibility have been proven in a human pilot trial. The efficacy has already been proven at the Medical University of Innsbruck in a prospective randomized-controlled trial, with results surpassing expectations (CAST-HF Trial).
Shockwaves are specific sonic pressure waves that can propagate through tissue, thereby generating a physical stimulus activating the innate immune system of treated cells. This leads to increased DNA accessibility and cellular plasticity, together with the secretion of angiogenic cytokines and growth factors. SWT thus induces angiogenesis in the hibernating myocardium. Newly formed vessels then support the recruitment of chronically undersupplied myocardium.
The CAST-HF Registry is designed to provide real-world data on the safety and efficacy of direct cardiac shockwave therapy in both the short- and long-term. By monitoring treated patients, the registry aims to detect rare adverse events, gain insights into relevant patient subgroups and identify any previously unknown device-related side effects. The registry will involve medical centers from across Europe and enrolled patients will be followed for up to three years.
The CAST-HF Trial demonstrated the significant increase of left ventricular ejection fraction at 12 months after shockwave therapy. This resulted in an improvement of the patients’ physical capacity, increased quality of life and a prolonged life expectancy. The innovative technology of our revolutionary Shockwave Applicator is a game-changer in cardiac care, offering patients a new quality of life.
