Studies have demonstrated the benefits of pharmacological1–8 and device interventions9 for patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) of ischaemic origin. While there are clear theoretical benefits in improving blood supply to large areas of dysfunctional ‘viable’ myocardium, several recent clinical trials have failed to demonstrate improved outcomes following revascularization.10–12 One explanation for these results may be the terminology employed to describe myocardial health.
