Four leading cardiothoracic surgery societies have joined forces in the name of developing clinical practice guidelines that are more thorough and consistent.

While production is relatively unchanged compared to the previous year, compensation is up significantly for cardiovascular surgeons in the United States. 

Cardiovascular devices are more likely to be in a Class I recall than any other device type. The FDA's approval process appears to be at least partially responsible, though the agency is working to make some serious changes. We spoke to a researcher who has been tracking these data for years to learn more. 

The two newly approved technologies are used together to help visualize cardiac ablation procedures performed with Boston Scientific’s Farapulse pulsed field ablation system.

Baroreflex activation therapy with the Barostim device from CVRx has received new CPT codes from the American Medical Association. The codes go into effect in January 2026.

The premixed embolic agent is designed to embolize hypervascular tumors and occlude blood flow in a patient's peripheral blood vessels. It was recalled in April due to safety concerns.

The news comes just days after CMS confirmed these technologies would start receiving expanded Medicare coverage in November. HeartFlow and other AI vendors have already shared their excitement over the decision. 

Device-based therapies can provide considerable value for heart failure patients when used alongside traditional pharmaceutical treatments. A new HFSA scientific statement outlines the benefits of these devices, urging care teams to implement them into daily practice.