Heart Rhythm

Hearts should have normal rhythm to their beats, but when these beats are out of synch, it causes inefficient pumping of blood. Irregular heart arrhythmias occur when the electrical signals that coordinate the heart's beats do not work properly. This can cause beats that are too fast (tachycardia), or too slow (bradycardia). Tachycardias include atrial fibrillation (AFib), supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and ventricular tachycardia (VT). Bradycardias include sick sinus syndrome and conduction block. Electrophysiology arrhythmia treatments include medications, life style changes, and the EP lab interventions of catheter ablation, and implantable pacemakers or defibrillators.

durbin-ama-opioid. The American College of Cardiology (ACC) and American Heart Association (AHA) have published new guidelines focused on the diagnosis, treatment and management of patients with chronic coronary disease (CCD).

NOACs vs. VKAs in TAVR patients with new-onset AFib: New meta-analysis examines key differences

The biggest differences between the two treatment options were major bleeding events and all-cause mortality. There was no significant difference when it came to stroke risk. 

September 18, 2023

Low-cost generic programs offer CVD medications at affordable prices—but availability changes from one to the next

Programs managed by H-E-B, Kroger, Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company and Walmart appear to offer the most options for CVD patients. When it comes to AFib and heart failure, however, researchers believe the choices could be improved. 

September 14, 2023
cardiologist preparing to perform radiofrequency ablation

Another long-term benefit of AFib ablation: Improved mental health

A new study published in JAMA suggests catheter ablation can help AFib patients experience fewer feelings of depression and anxiety.

September 13, 2023
Matthew Latacha, MD, Methodist Health System, cardiologist

Cardiologist killed in bicycle accident remembered as a ‘talented and compassionate’ electrophysiologist

According to a loving tribute from Methodist Health System, Matthew Latacha, MD, was “well respected, admired and loved by patients, colleagues and staff.” The incident is still under investigation. 

September 11, 2023
Boston Scientific has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for its Watchman FLX Pro left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) device

Boston Scientific gains FDA approval for Watchman FLX Pro LAAC device

This represents the latest iteration of the Watchman technology, which was first approved by the FDA back in 2020. 

September 7, 2023
Product Recall

FDA shares update on heart devices linked to multiple recalls and patient deaths

The devices, designed to provide temporary support to a patient's left ventricle, have been associated with a long list of issues in recent months. 

September 1, 2023

Pulsed-field ablation as safe and effective as thermal ablation when treating paroxysmal AFib

Boston Scientific, which funded the study, hopes these results can help the company gain FDA approval for its PFA device in the months ahead. 

August 28, 2023
Withings Body Scan Connected Health Station FDA cleared

FDA clears new smart scale capable of detecting AFib, other cardiovascular issues

The Body Scan Connected Health Station includes a high-strength glass platform with four weight sensors and 14 ITO electrodes and a retractable handle with four stainless steel electrodes.

August 28, 2023

Around the web

Eleven medical societies have signed on to a consensus statement aimed at standardizing imaging for suspected cardiovascular infections.

Kate Hanneman, MD, explains why many vendors and hospitals want to lower radiology's impact on the environment. "Taking steps to reduce the carbon footprint in healthcare isn’t just an opportunity," she said. "It’s also a responsibility."

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