A new clinical trial from the UK suggests that a wearable mini pump may allow heart failure patients to safely continue treatment at home, significantly reducing hospital stay duration.
The study, led by researchers from the University of Glasgow, was presented at the European Society of Cardiology Heart Failure Congress 2026 and published in the European Journal of Heart Failure. It evaluated a wearable subcutaneous device that delivers furosemide, a diuretic used to remove excess fluid in heart failure patients.
In the SUBCUT HF II trial involving 172 patients across 20 hospitals, participants using the wearable pump were discharged nearly five days earlier than those receiving standard intravenous hospital treatment. Recovery outcomes and safety profiles were reported to be similar between the two groups, with high patient satisfaction and good treatment adherence.
Heart failure, a condition affecting millions globally, often requires prolonged hospitalisation due to fluid overload symptoms such as breathlessness and swelling. The wearable system allows initial stabilisation in hospital, followed by continued therapy at home under guidance and monitoring.
Experts suggest that home-based cardiac care could ease pressure on healthcare systems, especially in countries like India, where cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of death, according to the World Health Organization. Organizations such as the Indian Council of Medical Research have also highlighted the growing burden of non-communicable diseases.
While results are promising, researchers note that larger long-term studies are still needed before widespread adoption, along with stronger remote monitoring and patient training systems.
