Cath Lab

The cardiac catheterization laboratory is used for diagnostic angiograms and percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI). Cath labs have also seen expanding use in recent years for transcatheter structural heart procedures. Some hospitals also share these labs with other subspecialties for catheter-based procedures in electrophysiology (EP), interventional radiology, peripheral artery disease (PAD), carotid and neuro interventional procedures and vascular surgery.

Data on a next-generation balloon-expandable transcatheter heart valve from Edwards Lifesciences, includes a new frame, new skirt and RESILIA bovine pericardial leaflets. It is currently known as the SAPIEN X4 valve.

Next-gen TAVR valve, tested on patients for very first time, linked to high success rate

A new-look TAVR valve was tested on patients for the first time, leading researchers to say its use appears to be "feasible and safe." More research, of course, is still required. 

May 12, 2023
artificial intelligence AI deep learning

AI model predicts LVEF during routine coronary angiograms

The video-based deep neural network showed potential for limiting invasive exams and improving patient care. 

May 10, 2023
dollar money graph increase finance

Shockwave Medical announces huge Q1 growth, including skyrocketing revenue, amid Boston Scientific rumors

The company reported a Q1 revenue of $161.1 million, up 72% from Q1 in 2022. Both gross profit and net income were also up considerably when compared to 2022. 

May 9, 2023
Intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) Shockwave Medical PCI PAD CAD trial prsented at SCAI 2022. #DisruptPAD, #DisruptCAD, #SCAI #SCAI22 #SCAI2022

Boston Scientific’s deal to acquire Shockwave Medical reportedly hits a snag

Talks between the two companies have reached a standstill, according to a new report. The rumor appears to have impacted the stock prices of both Boston Scientific and Shockwave Medical. 

May 8, 2023
Open

How improving access to PCI affects heart attack outcomes

When PCI-capable hospitals open and close, how does it impact patient care for the surrounding area? Researchers aimed to find out, sharing their findings in JACC: Cardiovascular Interventions.

May 5, 2023
Cardiologists employed by a hospital appear to be more likely to pursue cardiac catheterization or angioplasty than independent cardiologists. female physician male

Fewer stress tests, more high-risk procedures: How working at a hospital influences cardiologists

Cardiologists employed by a hospital appear to be more likely to pursue cardiac catheterization or angioplasty than independent cardiologists.

May 4, 2023
Magenta Medical Elevate Heart Pump

Medical device company raises $55M for new percutaneous heart pump

The device, described as the "world's smallest heart pump," has received the FDA's breakthrough device designation for two indications. 

May 4, 2023
A TAVR procedure being performed at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago.

Is TAVR too common among younger, low-risk patients? 2 experts share their concerns

Two experienced TAVR specialists—Sachin Goel, MD, and Michael Reardon, MD—examined the growing trend of younger, low-risk patients being recommended for TAVR over SAVR.

May 2, 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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