Patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) related pulmonary arterial hypertension (SScPAH) have a worse prognosis than those with idiopathic PAH. We have recently discovered that heart cells in SScPAH do not contract or squeeze as well as in other forms of pulmonary hypertension. However, the mechanism leading to this dysfunction is not understood. To better study this and in hopes of developing a future therapy, we plan to collect tissue samples via a heart biopsy at the time of a clinically indicated heart catheterization.

This study will examine whether a baroreflex activation therapy device (a small pacemakers that are helpful in heart failure) is beneficial for left ventricular assist device (LVAD) patients. For patients who have a baroreflex activation therapy device and LVAD, we assess whether baroreflex activation therapy helps them feel better and have fewer symptoms. We will also look at whether it helps with recovery of their weak heart. Participation in this study will last 6 months and require 3 clinic visits. At each visit, a participant's symptoms will be assessed, they will have pictures of their heart taken to determine function, and bloodwork will be drawn.

This is a study to evalaute the device's safety, function, and effects on heart function, and clinical outcomes of using the Edwards APTURE system (study device) in subjects with heart failure.

Major study activities include 3 right heart catheterizations (RHC) with exercise, a computed tomography (CT) scan with contrast, multiple ultrasounds of the heart, labs, and other assessments. The length of subject participation in the study is 5 years and includes 11 research visits.

The information obtained from this study will show how safe and effective this approach is in treating the symptoms of heart failure. Alternative treatment for heart failure depends on the cause, but may include diet and exercise, managing stress, medication (such as medications to treat leg swelling, high blood pressure, or abnormal heart rate), participation in another research study or continuing with current medical therapy

This is a multi-center study that we have been invited to join that will evaluate the LVAD pump function in relation to adverse events. We are the 8th largest implanting center for LVADs in the United States and feel it is important to be a part of this.

This study is enrolling subjects with heart failure and a reduced ejection fraction meaning the heart does not pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. This study is researching an investigational device (study device) called the Alleviant ALV1 System. Investigational means it has not been approved for commercial use by the Food and Drug Administration. (FDA) This study will test the safety and effectiveness of the Alleviant ALV1 System. The Alleviant ALV1 System is intended to create a shunt (an opening) in the heart to allow for proper blood flow through the heart which may improve your symptoms. No device is left in your heart it is just used to create the shunt. This is a randomized study which means subjects are assigned by chance to either have the study device create this shunt or not have the study device create the shunt. Randomization is 50/50 meaning there is a 50% chance to have the study device create a shunt and a 50% chance the study device will not be used. Using the study device to create the shunt is performed during a right heart catheterization (RHC) so all subjects will undergo the RHC but only 50% will have the shunt. Neither the subjects nor the study doctor will know which group subjects are randomized to but other study staff will know in the event this information is needed. All subjects will stay overnight in the hospital after the procedure. Other study related procedures include echocardiograms - ultrasound test of the heart, electrocardiograms (ECG) - a tracing of the heart's electrical activity, blood work, questionnaires, 6 minute hall walk test, and assessments of heart failure status. Risks include risks related to the study device including blood vessel damage from placing the device in the vein to get to the heart, risks from the right heart catheterization such as bleeding or bruising, abnormal heart beats, and risks related to study related procedures. There may be risks that are not known at this time. Participation in this study is expected to last about 60 months and include approximately 15 in person visits and 3 telephone calls.