Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Methods and Apparatus (BIDMC 971)

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
posted on 01/14/2012

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Background:
Myocardial infarction (MI) remains the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in the Western world despite advancements in the treatment of coronary artery disease. Once the MI scar develops, the ventricle undergoes unfavorable remodeling resulting in left ventricular dilation and decreased ejection fraction. Post-infarction heart failure (HF) has 50% mortality in 5 years from symptom onset. With advanced HF refractory to medical management, heart transplantation is the only option for younger individuals. The shortage of organs, however, warrants alternative treatment strategies to enhance myocardial regeneration and repair.

Invention:
A novel minimally-invasive method and device are described for the implantation of autologous adult myotissue to treat the myocardial infarct scar. Biopsies of myocardial tissue are obtained from the preserved ventricular septum and used for implantation into the myocardial scar tissue with their intact milieu and without the need for ex vivo culturing or manipulation. The safety and efficacy of the method in limiting left ventricular dysfunction post MI have been demonstrated in a porcine model of myocardial infarction.