Boston Scientific’s Agent Drug-Coated Balloon (DCB), which delivers a therapeutic dose of the anti-proliferative drug paclitaxel to the patient’s scar tissue to prevent ISR from recurring, gained FDA approval on March 1..

Cardiologists share historic research that led to FDA’s long-awaited approval of coronary DCB

When Boston Scientific’s coronary DCB gained approval in the United States, it was a moment the country's cardiologists had been looking forward to for years. The cardiologists who researched the device have now detailed their findings, highlighting the "unmet need" this technology is addressing. 

March 14, 2024
Elderly patient doctor. Despite an expanded indication from the FDA and lower prices, patient access to these cholesterol-lowering medications remains a significant issue.

Cognitive impairment among heart failure patients: How cardiologists can help

The Heart Failure Society of America shared a new scientific statement about this topic, noting that many patients may require additional help.

March 13, 2024
Adults who regularly drink sweetened beverages face a heightened risk of atrial fibrillation (AFib), according to new data published in Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology.

Heart issues more common in adults who drink soda, other sweetened beverages

Diet sodas made with artificial sweeteners are associated with an even higher risk of issues than sugar-sweetened sodas.

March 12, 2024
HeartFlow FFR-CT is a non-invasive imaging method to determine the fractional flow reserve for the entire coronary tree.

AI-based CAD assessments as accurate as FFR, new 10-year study confirms

The FDA-approved technology developed by HeartFlow can predict a patient's long-term risk of target vessel failure as well as more invasive treatments performed inside a cath lab. 

March 12, 2024
Medicare data stethoscope healthcare trends graphs finance financials

ACC, SCAI say new funding bill did not do enough to limit Medicare reimbursement cuts to cardiology services

President Joe Biden signed a funding bill worth $460 billion on March 9, but it only included partial relief for cardiologists, cardiac surgeons and other cardiology professionals. 

March 11, 2024
The rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has helped cardiologists, radiologists, nurses and other healthcare providers embrace precision medicine in a way that ensures more heart patients are receiving personalized care.

AI helps cardiologists deliver personalized healthcare—but there is still plenty of work to do

A new scientific statement from the American Heart Association explores the many ways AI and machine learning are being used to improve care for heart patients.

March 7, 2024

Permanent pacemaker implantation after TAVR increases healthcare costs by $24,000 per patient

Researchers say their new analysis, based on five years of U.S. data, highlights just how important it is to keep post-TAVR PPMI rates to a minimum. 

March 5, 2024
Marijuana use among older adults is associated with a heightened risk of atrial and ventricular arrhythmias, according to new research published in the American Journal of Cardiology. “Marijuana use increases sympathetic nervous system activity and inhibits cardiac parasympathetic innervation, resulting in elevated heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and an increase in myocardial oxygen demand.

‘Just like smoking tobacco’: Cannabis use increases stroke risk by 42%, heart attack risk by 25%

“It can be a challenging discussion to have with patients because there is evidence that cannabis has some therapeutic properties," one researcher said. "However, as suggested by this study, cannabis use also has significant cardiovascular risks.”  

March 4, 2024

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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