Heart failure (also known as congestive heart failure or CHF) occurs when the heart’s ability to pump blood (measured by ejection fraction) is weakened. Cardiomyopathy is a related condition that can lead to heart failure. Cardiomyopathy involves an enlarged heart or a heart muscle that is thicker or more rigid than it should be. Treatment may include medications, lifestyle changes, nonsurgical procedures and devices such as a left ventricular assist device (LVAD). In cases of end stage heart failure, a heart transplant is needed. The total artificial heart is still experimental.