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.

BMJ analysis finds TAVR evidence wanting

Despite growing enthusiasm for transcather aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedures, Belgian researchers wrote that they have serious concerns about the treatments clinical outcomes and cost-effectiveness. In an analysis published July 31 in BMJ, they listed TAVRs approval process, lack of transparency and a disconnect between practice and clinical evidence among their concerns.

AtriCure CEO resigns

David J. Drachman, CEO and president of AtriCure, has announced his resignation. Drachman will continue to serve the company through Sept. 30.

Cost-cutting Strategies that Deliver: Three Solutions for the Cath Lab

In a real-world setting, many administrators struggle to balance pinching pennies and delivering care. As hospital reimbursement dwindles and innovation blossoms, hospital staff must find creative ways to save a buck without skimping on care. Staff members from three hospitals share their solutions ranging from data dissemination to innovation to physician engagement.

In the News | Surgery

Latest in Cardiac Surgery & CABG

Anatomy of a Successful Hybrid OR

Hybrid operating rooms promise to deliver multiple benefits, but they represent a hefty investment and require meticulous planning.

FFR 2.0: A Calculated Run for Supremacy

Fractional flow reserve is a valuable asset in cardiac cath labs for assessing ischemia-causing lesions. But two new approaches soon may provide alternatives.

Edwards strides through Q2 due to strong transcatheter valve sales

Edwards Lifesciences, a developer of heart valves and hemodynamic monitoring, has posted a strong second quarter, showing an increase in sales and net income over the previous year's second quarter.

Acute MI risk raised two weeks after total hip or knee replacement surgeries

Total hip replacement and total knee replacement surgeries were associated with increased risk of acute MI in the first two weeks after the surgical procedures, according to a registry study published July 23 in the Archives of Internal Medicine.

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.