Abrazo Arrowhead Campus is now offering the Optimizer Smart Mini System for treating patients experiencing moderate to severe congestive heart failure symptoms.

Similar to a pacemaker, the device delivers precisely timed electric pulses called cardiac contractility modulation (CCM) therapy.

Abrazo Arrowhead is located at 18701 N. 67th Ave., in Glendale.

Heart failure is a chronic condition that limits the heart’s capacity to pump enough blood to deliver the oxygen and blood in the body. Heart failure does not mean your heart has stopped, but it does require medical attention. It can be managed with medication in some patients, others may consider implantable devices to help manage the condition.

In heart failure, fluids can build up around the heart, making it harder to pump efficiently. The body also tries to make up for heart failure by narrowing the blood vessels to keep the blood pressure up, as well as by diverting blood away from the brain, the heart and other organs and tissues like your kidneys.

After implantation, the physician custom-programs and activates the device for the patient. The device then begins sending electrical pulses to the heart muscle for a total of 5-7 hours a day, in one-hour treatments separated by regular intervals.

The patient charges the device one hour per week using an external charger. The Optimizer device is expected to last at least 20 years without replacement.

Visit AbrazoHealth.com for more info about cardiovascular services at Abrazo Health hospitals, to take a free health risk assessment or to find a doctor.

Abrazo Arrowhead operating room staff celebrate completing the hospital’s first Optimizer device implant to treat heart failure.

(Photo provided by Abrazo Arrowhead Campus)