Acute Coronary Syndromes

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is most commonly caused by a heart attack (myocardial infarction) where blood flow to the heart is suddenly blocked. This is usually caused by a blood clot from a ruptured coronary artery atherosclerotic plaque. Other causes include spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD), which most commonly occurs in women. ACS is usually treated in a cath lab with angioplasty and the placement of a stent to prop the vessel open.

FDA announces recall of intra-aortic balloon pumps due to risk of cardiac arrest, stroke or death

The recall includes more than 2,000 devices distributed to customers in 2022. There have been 241 complaints, and 135 reported pump stops, related to this issue. 

Cardiovascular disease still the No. 1 cause of death in the world

A new global report, based on data from 204 different countries and territories, has been published in full in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

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DASH diet reduces long-term risk of heart disease

Following the DASH diet is associated with key health benefits, according to a new analysis published in the American Journal of Cardiology.

An inflated intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) with the Maquet Cardiosave system.

Supply chain problems: FDA warns of new shortage of intra-aortic balloon pumps, catheters and spare parts

Getinge has provided a detailed breakdown of the shortage, stating that it is not yet clear when it may be over. The FDA said it will keep a close eye on the situation and provide updates when possible. 

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New AI model calculates risk of heart attack or stroke using a single X-ray

“This type of screening could be used to identify individuals who would benefit from statin medication but are currently untreated," one specialist said. The full analysis will be presented at RSNA 2022 in Chicago. 

ADHD medications and CVD: Lessons learned from a new meta-analysis of nearly 4 million patients

The new study, published in JAMA Network Open, should help ease any concerns patients may have about regularly taking ADHD medications. 

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New research raises doubts about the link between ‘good’ cholesterol and heart disease

Low HDL-C levels are commonly associated with increasing a person's risk of developing cardiovascular disease. However, a new study in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology suggests this may not be the case for all patient populations. 

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FDA warns 7 companies for illegally selling dietary supplements that claim to treat CVD

The companies were given 15 days to provide an adequate response to the FDA's warning. The agency said its next step could include legal action. 

Around the web

Several key trends were evident at the Radiological Society of North America 2024 meeting, including new CT and MR technology and evolving adoption of artificial intelligence.

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