A response to a query in the New York Times Well blog reviews the latest on sex on statins. Some research suggests statin use helps, some that it hurts and that if there is an issue, the patient and physician need to weigh pros and cons.

The FDA expanded the labeling for a mechanical aortic valve by approving a lower International Normalized Ratio (INR) that is closer to an unmedicated range.

From 2001 to 2011, the rate of emergency department visits for ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) among adults decreased 35 percent, while the percentage of visits that resulted in admission or transfer to a hospital increased 10 percent.

Research puts the value of lower extremity revascularization in nursing home residents with peripheral artery disease in doubt. Overall, 82 percent of these patients at the one-year mark were nonambulatory or had died.

Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc. today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) filed a supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) for Pradaxa® (dabigatran etexilate mesylate) for the prophylaxis of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) in patients who have had primary elective total hip replacement surgery. If approved, this will become the fourth indication for PRADAXA.

Upcoming coding will allow the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to adjust for stroke severity in quality measures, the American Stroke Association’s council reported in its spring update. It was one of several highlights that the council described as sea changes.

Medtronic plc today announced its acquisition of Diabeter, an innovative, independent Netherlands-based diabetes clinic and research center dedicated to providing comprehensive and individualized care for children and young adults with diabetes.

We are a quarter of the way into 2015 and TAVR already is jockeying to be the top story of the year.