Methods and compositions to treat myocardial conditions

Abstract

Methods, devices, kits and compositions to treat a myocardial infarction. In one embodiment, the method includes the prevention of remodeling of the infarct zone of the ventricle using a combination of therapies. The method may include the introduction of structurally reinforcing agents. In other embodiments, agents may be introduced into a ventricle to increase compliance of the ventricle. The prevention of remodeling may include the prevention of thinning of the ventricular infarct zone. Another embodiment includes the reversing or prevention of ventricular remodeling with electro-stimulatory therapy. The unloading of the stressed myocardium over time effects reversal of undesirable ventricular remodeling. These therapies may be combined with structurally reinforcing therapies. In other embodiments, the structurally reinforcing component may be accompanied by other therapeutic agents. These agents may include but are not limited to pro-fibroblastic and angiogenic agents.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method to minimize post-infarct ventricular remodeling, comprising:
 delivering electrical stimulation using one or more sensing channels for sensing intrinsic cardiac activity selected from the group consisting of: (i) a plurality of pacing channels for delivering pacing pulses; (ii) a controller for controlling the delivery of pacing pulses in accordance with a pacing algorithm; and (iii) a patch having a plurality of pacing electrodes incorporated into the pacing channels; and   delivering at least one structurally reinforcing component to the infarct region.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising, a drug delivery system for delivering an agent selected from a group consisting of an ACE inhibitor, a beta blocker, a growth factor, and an anti-apoptotic factor. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising, an impedance sensor for detecting changes in wall motion and wall thickness in an area in proximity to the infarct and wherein the controller is programmed to modify the delivery of pacing pulses. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1  wherein delivering at least one structurally reinforcing agent increases the modulus of elasticity of the infarct region. 
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 1  wherein delivering at least one structurally reinforcing agent to the infarct region comprises delivering microspheres. 
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 1  wherein the structurally reinforcing agent comprises a modified and/or unmodified alginate gel material.