Interventional Cardiology

This cardiac subspecialty uses minimally invasive, catheter-based technologies in a cath lab to diagnose and treat coronary artery disease (CAD). The main focus in on percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) to revascularize patients with CAD that is causing blockages resulting in ischemia or myocardial infarction. PCI mainly consists of angioplasty and implanting stents. Interventional cardiology has greatly expanded in scope over recent years to include a number of transcatheter structural heart interventions.

Endovascular therapy trumps tPA for distal stroke clot treatment

When it comes to hard-to-reach blood clots, endovascular therapy is an effective—and superior—method to medical management, according to a recent study by the University of Texas Health Science Center.

Cardiovascular Research Foundation announces late-breaking trials for TCT conference

The Cardiovascular Research Foundation has announced the lineup of late-breaking clinical trials and first report investigations for the upcoming Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics (TCT) conference.

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Nearly 75% of cardiothoracic surgeons are satisfied with careers

Nearly 75 percent of cardiothoracic surgeons are satisfied with their current career, according to a survey from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS). The findings showed that 14.9 percent were extremely satisfied, 28.6 percent were very satisfied, 29.3 percent were satisfied, 21.3 percent were somewhat satisfied and 5.9 percent were not at all satisfied.

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Public reporting of PCI may dissuade physicians from treating high-risk patients

Healthcare industry leaders have called for more transparency as a way to assess procedures, improve the quality of care and provide patients with better information when selecting hospitals and physicians. A new analysis, however, raises concerns about public reporting.

New zip skin closures save time in cath lab, reduce tissue damage

A new noninvasive skin closure device is more efficient and effective than other models when used during heart surgery, according to findings in a new study.

Aspirin protects the heart because it impacts the genes

A daily aspirin regimen may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and heart attack—but not for the reason doctors originally thought.

Canadian Cardiovascular Society updates atrial fibrillation guidelines

New evidence-based recommendations to improve patient outcomes published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology. 

Deadly gas gives diabetes patients a better life

A deadly gas with a distinct smell could help diabetes patients recover from heart complications.

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.