“Improvement of Technical Options Regarding Imaging and Therapy of Heart Failure”

Supervisor: prof.dr. H. Brunner-La Rocca
Co-supervisor: dr. V.P.M. van Empel

Improving imaging modalities applied in heart failure patients makes it possible to improve therapy in this population. Currently used techniques for determination of left ventricular function (essential in the diagnosis of heart failure) e.g. echocardiography are analyzed manually and carry a significant variability. This thesis showed that a more objective technical, software-based approach is feasible, reliable, fast and provides additional information. Knackstedt also tested technical options to improve adherence to cardiac rehabilitation programs. A new combination of sensors that allow home based training improved exercise capacity, led to better weight reduction, levels of hsCRP and cholesterol-levels. Although there is still room for improvement, telemedicine has the future, concludes Knackstedt.

Keywords: heart failure patients, imaging techniques, software, diagnosis and therapy