Abstract

ULTRASOUND-APPLICATIONS IN CARDIOVASCULAR TREATMENTS AND ROLE OF PHARMACISTS-AN UPDATED REVIEW

*Abdulrhman Awadh Alharbi, Ahmad Mufleh Alenazi, Ahmad Alhelo Alanazi, Ibrahim Muhammad Al-Arej, Fawaz Awdah Mohammad Alshammari, Abdullah Saleh Alshowmer, Abdullatif Suliman Alsayegh, Mohammed Abdullah Alduaybi, Hamoud Ghayyadh Alanizi, Adel Mohamed AlDukain, Fouad Hamed saeed Alamri, Mohammed Ayyat alanazi, Khalid Ali Almzairie and Abdullah lbrahim Alsulaiman

ABSTRACT

Background: The introduction of ultrasound (US) in cardiology has transformed both diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to cardiovascular diseases. Originally developed for imaging, ultrasound has also demonstrated significant potential in therapeutic applications, particularly in treating ischemic heart disease (IHD). Aim: This review aims to evaluate the mechanisms, clinical effectiveness, and safety of therapeutic ultrasound in cardiovascular treatments, alongside the evolving role of pharmacists in this context. Methods: The review synthesizes existing literature on therapeutic ultrasound technologies, primarily extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ECWT) and high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). The clinical outcomes and biochemical effects of these modalities were analyzed, focusing on their role in promoting angiogenesis, improving myocardial perfusion,and their application in cardiac arrhythmias. Results: The findings indicate that therapeutic US significantly enhances myocardial function and vascular regeneration in IHD patients. ECWT has shown promising results in both animal studies and human clinical trials, improving ejection fraction and reducing angina symptoms. HIFU is effective for precise ablation procedures in arrhythmias, demonstrating significant therapeutic advantages. Conclusion: Therapeutic ultrasound emerges as a pivotal adjunct in cardiovascular treatments, offering non-invasive options that enhance patient outcomes. Pharmacists play a crucial role in optimizing therapy by managing medication regimens and monitoring patient responses.

Keywords: Ultrasound, cardiovascular treatments, ischemic heart disease, pharmacists, therapeutic ultrasound.