Scripps Clinic cardiologist Dr. Rajeev Mohan is at the forefront of a clinical trial testing a tiny atrial shunt device, barely the size of a fingernail, designed to relieve pressure in the hearts of patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

This innovative implant creates a small opening between the two upper chambers of the heart, reducing fluid buildup in the lungs and easing breathlessness—a hallmark of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction or HFpEF.

The trial is part of a global effort, with Scripps La Jolla among just 65 hospitals worldwide participating.

One early recipient, Amy Vasquez, shared her transformational experience. Previously unable to walk up the hill in her neighborhood or keep up with daily activities, she “almost immediately” noticed improvement after implantation. “It was like… I got to the top, and I was just overjoyed,” she said.

Reflecting on her diagnosis, Vasquez recalled the hope she found after learning that HFpEF, once considered a near-five-year lifespan prognosis, now has a better outlook thanks to advancing treatments. But now, regained mobility, she’s back to hiking, kayaking, and even planning cruises, hoping to live many active years with her family.

Dr. Mohan called the shunt device “really groundbreaking,” emphasizing its potential to improve both symptoms and long-term outcomes for HFpEF patients.

Scripps is still accepting patients interested in participating in the trial, offering a rare chance to access a device that could redefine heart failure treatment paradigms.