Cardiac Imaging

While cardiac ultrasound is the widely used imaging modality for heart assessments, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and nuclear imaging are also used and are often complimentary, each offering specific details about the heart other modalities cannot. For this reason the clinical question being asked often determines the imaging test that will be used.

FDA warns of a new malfunction risk with Abbott’s MitraClip devices

When these malfunctions occur, the FDA explained, it leads to an increased risk of additional interventions.

DOACs after TAVR may put some patients at risk, new meta-analysis suggests

The new study, based on data from nearly 3,000 patients, compared DOACs such as rivaroxaban, apixaban and edoxaban with single and dual antiplatelet therapy. 

Watchman FLX left atrial appendage closure (LAAC)

Boston Scientific gains a new FDA approval for Watchman FLX LAAC device

The company can now update its labeling instructions for the device to include a new 45-day dual anti-platelet therapy treatment option when treating non-valvular atrial fibrillation. 

SAVR after TAVR is rare, but linked to a high mortality risk

Researchers tracked data from more than 2,000 patients, noting that surgical bailout, infective endocarditis and paravalvular leak were the most common reasons for surgery to be required after TAVR. The full study was published in the American Journal of Cardiology.

heart patient

TEER safe and feasible for patients with atrial secondary mitral regurgitation

Atrial secondary mitral regurgitation has been linked to higher in-hospital mortality and hospitalization rates. 

Juan F. Granada, MD, president and chief executive officer of the Cardiovascular Research Foundation (CRF) and assistant professor of medicine at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, explains some of the highlights of the upcoming 2022 Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapies (TCT) conference sponsored by CRF. #TCT #TCT2022

VIDEO: Previewing TCT 2022 in Boston with Juan Granada

Juan F. Granada, MD, president and chief executive officer of the Cardiovascular Research Foundation, previewed TCT 2022 for us, detailing what attendees can expect to see at the big show in Boston. 

A TAVR procedure being performed at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago. These structural heart procedures require a team approach.

TAVR patients with CAD face a greater risk of death—is PCI the answer?

All-cause mortality after five years is much more likely if a TAVR patient presents with CAD, according to a new analysis published in JACC: Cardiovascular Interventions.

JenaValve Technology transfemoral TAVR

JenaValve raises $100M for its transfemoral TAVR system for severe aortic regurgitation

After finding success in Europe, the company is focused on gaining FDA approval for its Trilogy Heart Valve System and launching the device in the United States. 

Around the web

Ron Blankstein, MD, professor of radiology, Harvard Medical School, explains the use of artificial intelligence to detect heart disease in non-cardiac CT exams.

Eleven medical societies have signed on to a consensus statement aimed at standardizing imaging for suspected cardiovascular infections.