Chronic Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction

Chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, or HFrEF, is a form of systolic heart failure caused by impaired left ventricular contractility and an ejection fraction of 40% or less.

In this episode, we review:

• The classic symptoms and physical exam findings of HFrEF
• Common causes, including ischemic heart disease and dilated cardiomyopathy
• The role of echocardiography and BNP
• The major disease-modifying medications for chronic HFrEF
• Why loop diuretics improve symptoms but not mortality
• When to consider an ICD or cardiac resynchronization therapy

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