The Batista procedure, named after Brazilian surgeon Dr. Randas Batista, is a surgical technique used to treat end-stage heart failure, particularly in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. This procedure involves the partial removal of a section of the heart's left ventricle to reduce its size and improve overall cardiac function. By removing a portion of the weakened heart muscle, the Batista procedure aims to decrease the heart's volume, reduce stress on the cardiac tissues, and enhance the heart's ability to pump blood more effectively. The Batista procedure is typically indicated for patients with severely enlarged hearts that are not responding to other treatments, such as medication or less invasive procedures. The underlying causes of dilated cardiomyopathy can include viral infections, genetic conditions, or prolonged high blood pressure, leading to the heart's chambers stretching and weakening over time. Symptoms leading to the consideration of the Batista procedure often include severe shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the legs and abdomen, and an inability to perform daily activities due to the heart's diminished capacity. These symptoms result from the heart's reduced ability to efficiently pump blood, leading to fluid accumulation and insufficient oxygen delivery to the body's tissues. While the Batista procedure can offer significant improvement in symptoms and quality of life for some patients, it is not universally successful and carries risks such as heart failure, arrhythmias, or complications related to surgery. It is often considered a bridge to more definitive treatments, such as heart transplantation, for patients with advanced heart disease.
