Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) have been shown to be superior to medications (beta blockers, digoxin, ace inhibitors, diuretics) for management of advanced heart failure. Other surgical alternatives, like mitral valve repair, aortic valve repair, and the Dor procedures (remodeling the shape of the left ventricle) are also important in the management of patients with CHF. These are topics that will all be covered in the book.