Many of November’s most popular stories shared a common theme: progress. At AHA 2023, for example, several presentations focused on AI’s ability to transform the entire industry. In addition, two renal denervation systems gained FDA approval in the last few weeks, creating a new treatment option for uncontrolled hypertension. Another big story was the new data on non-invasive ultrasound therapy for aortic stenosis. Could this go on to be a safe alternative to TAVR and SAVR? Only time will tell.

As always, thank you for reading. – Michael Walter | Editor

A cardiologist-led think tank tracked data from more than 1 million procedures, exploring the clinical and economic impacts of implanting low-value coronary stents. 

The 56-year-old was one of 10 men arrested in Colorado as part of a two-day sting operation. 

AI was one of the biggest stories at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2023 conference in Philadelphia. Researchers presented new data about heart attack care, voice recognition algorithms, digital stethoscopes and more. 

Intravascular lithotripsy therapy to break up calcified coronary lesions will now be reimbursed at a higher rate under new in-hospital codes the went into effect Oct. 1.

The new-look algorithm, trained and validated with data from more than 25,000 patients, scans a patient's electronic health record and identifies signs of trouble. 

Medical facilities and distributors have been advised to immediately discontinue the use of these devices due to a significant labeling issue. 

Kendra Grubb, MD, one of the country's leading experts on cardiac surgery, discussed what she tells her patients when they ask if TAVR is better than SAVR for treating severe aortic stenosis. 

The deal could also include additional clinical and regulatory milestone payments in the years ahead.

The system, designed for patients with uncontrolled hypertension who are unresponsive to medication, uses ultrasound ablation to target nerves in the renal arteries, increasing blood flow. This approval comes just months after an FDA advisory panel voted in favor of the system. 

While TAVR and SAVR are reliable treatments for calcific aortic stenosis, some patients are not considered for those procedures due to severe comorbidities or a limited life expectancy. This is where the investigational Valvosoft device from Cardiawave enters the equation.