Medizinische Universität Graz - Research portal
Selected Publication:
Smolle, E.
Prognosis of chronic heart failure based on data from the EuroHeart Failure Survey
[ Diplomarbeit ] Medical University of Graz, 2011. pp. 54
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- Authors Med Uni Graz:
- Advisor:
- Fruhwald Friedrich
- Altmetrics:
- Abstract:
- Background: Heart failure is a disease with ventricular disorder, dyspnea and, often, peripheral edema. Prognosis of these patients is bad and it is unclear how international guidelines can be implemented. To gain information in this context, the EuroHeart Failure survey, a multinational Euopean research programme has been implemented. The major intention was to gain information about managing heart failure patients in the real world. I collected data from patients suffering from chronic heart failure taking part in the survey. Material and Methods: The patients¿ data was collected using questionnaires. I did the 12 months-follow up, because the patients have been included in the survey one year before. Inclusion criteria were chronic heart failure of any etiology and >18 years of age. 66 patients have been investigated. They have either been contacted at routine-investigations at the cardiological clinic of Graz or by telephone. Results: Among the 66 patients, there were 15 women and 51 men. The median age was 61 years. On average, guideline adherence was 40 % with an improvement from 32% at baseline to 50% at the 12 months-follow up. Patients living in the city were treated with better adherence than those living in rural areas. Women were treated in better adherence with the guidelines than men (54% versus 37%, respectively). 13 patients have been rehospitalized within the previous 6 months. 4 out of 66 patients did not survive until the 12 months-follow up. Discussion and Conclusion: One-year survival is relatively good with 94%. However, many patients deteriorated regarding the NYHA-functional classification. This suggests, that heart failure is a progressive disease, because advanced age contributes to clinical deterioration despite of good treatment. There is limited chance for complete healing.