Published: March 13, 2026
Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
Norton Heart & Vascular Institute specialists now have a new way to help some heart failure patients, using the first Food and Drug Administration-approved implantable device designed to improve symptoms and quality of life for select patients with systolic heart failure.
In heart failure, the body’s signals can get out of balance, making the heart work even harder. The Barostim device sends tiny electrical signals to help restore balance, so the heart doesn’t have to strain as much. For carefully selected patients who remain symptomatic despite other therapy, the device can reduce shortness of breath and fatigue and make it easier for a patient to do daily activities like walking or getting dressed.
“Bringing this treatment to patients expands our toolbox for people who still struggle with heart failure symptoms despite medications,” said Bassell Alkhalil, M.D., heart failure cardiologist with Norton Heart & Vascular Institute. “This technology allows us to support the heart by modulating the body’s own signals.”
It is the only heart failure device that does not place hardware in the heart or blood vessels.
“The procedure is intended for adults with systolic heart failure who continue to experience symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue, despite optimal medications,” said Erika A. Banta, PA-C, physician assistant with Norton Heart & Vascular Institute.
Ferenc P. Nagy, M.D, a highly skilled vascular surgeon, performed Norton Heart & Vascular Institute’s first Barostim implant in early 2026. Patients are evaluated by a multidisciplinary team at Norton Heart & Vascular Institute to determine if the procedure is right for them.