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The J-Valve System is associated with positive 10-year outcomes for patients with severe AR, according to new research out of China. It also performs well in patients with severe AS.

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An experimental oral PCSK9 inhibitor is associated with LDL-C reductions that could prove to be a game-changer for patient care. 

SCAI has shared a new call to action as an observance of American Heart Month. The group is asking Congress to pass new pieces of legislation that could improve care for PAD patients and get important medical devices in the hands of interventional cardiologists.

Cerepak Detachable Coil Systems

Several detachable coil systems are being recalled due to a higher-than-expected failure to detach rate. Customers should not use them going forward.

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New Jersey-based Zydus Pharmaceuticals has recalled nearly 23,000 bottles of its icosapent ethyl capsules due to leakage issues that may have weakened their effectiveness. 

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Survival rates are high for both men and women presenting with BAV disease, according to a new analysis of nearly 28,000 SAVR patients.

Open surgical bypass is the gold standard, but endovascular therapies may provide value for high-risk patients with long femoropopliteal lesions.

The cardiologist at the head of an influential CDC panel sees serious problems with modern vaccine policies. While many experts seem to disagree, one organization has jumped to his defense. 

Abbott recently announced it is partnering with AtaCor Medical to develop a next-generation extravascular implantable cardioverter defibrillator (EV-ICD) system. AtaCor's investigational extravascular ICD lead will be paired with Abbott's investigational extravascular ICD system.

Extravascular ICDs were developed to avoid complications such as vascular injuries, lead fractures and lead infections. Although rare, these issues can cause serious, life-threatening complications for patients.

TactiFlex Duo Ablation Catheter, Sensor Enabled

The TactiFlex Duo Ablation Catheter, Sensor Enabled was designed to switch from PFA to radiofrequency ablation as needed, providing electrophysiologists with options when treating AFib patients.

Anthony Fletcher, MD, FACC FAHA, FSCAI, president of the Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC), and an interventional cardiologist at CHI St. Vincent Heart Clinic Arkansas, Little Rock, explains the results of a recent ABC survey looking at the level of awareness among providers and communities in cardiology care deserts in the South. He said there was a poor level of understanding about LDL-C management and Lp(a) awareness among both primary care providers and patients in these underserved areas.

Association of Black Cardiologists President Anthony Fletcher, MD, discusses the group's efforts to educate patients in Louisiana, Arkansas, Georgia and Mississippi.

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CMS is considering substantial updates to its TAVR policies, including coverage for asymptomatic patients. Some stakeholders are excited, embracing the possibility of expanded indications and fewer restrictions. Others are concerned that the changes would be too much, too soon.

Around the web

Tim Szczykutowicz, PhD, associate professor radiology, University of Wisconsin Madison, explains the new technology developments in GE HealthCare's  FDA 510(k)-pending photon-counting CT scanner.