What does HFpEF stand for?

HFpEF stands for Heart Failure with preserved left ventricular Ejection Fraction. This term specifically describes a type of heart failure where the heart is able to maintain a normal ejection fraction while the patient still experiences symptoms of heart failure. In patients with HFpEF, the left ventricle's ability to contract is not compromised; instead, the issue often lies with the stiffness of the heart muscle, which can lead to improper filling of the ventricle during diastole. This is critical in understanding heart failure classifications, as management strategies and prognoses can differ significantly between HFpEF and heart failure types characterized by reduced ejection fraction. This distinction is vital for clinicians in tailoring appropriate treatment plans and for understanding the underlying pathophysiology of heart failure.