Articles tagged with Cardiology
A study found that nearly a quarter of older patients developing new microbleeds after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) experience cognitive decline. Microbleeds are detrimental to thinking and memory, and factors associated with increased risk include previous cardiovascular intervention and prolonged anticoagulant exposure.
Researchers found that a pacemaker delivering a pacing program designed to detect and stop abnormal heart rhythms can significantly reduce fainting episodes in patients with recurrent syncope. The study, known as SPAIN, showed a seven-fold reduction in recurrences of syncope in patients who used the program.
New research reveals a significant gap in statin eligibility for African Americans under different guidelines, highlighting the need for personalized treatment. The study found that stricter USPSTF guidelines may miss some individuals with vascular calcification and low or moderate risk.
The new iFR tool has been shown to be equivalent to the current preferred tool FFR in terms of major adverse events and patient outcomes. It also resulted in markedly less patient discomfort and reduced procedure-related adverse events compared to FFR.
Dr. Steven M. Bradley, a Minneapolis Heart Institute physician, has been awarded the American College of Cardiology's 2017 Douglas P. Zipes Distinguished Young Scientist Award. He will be recognized for his contributions to cardiovascular medicine and innovative care delivery solutions.
A new study finds that patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) who undergo moderate-intensity exercise training experience a small but statistically significant increase in peak VO2 max. This improvement is associated with reduced mortality risk and improved self-reported physical functioning.
Researchers from Mount Sinai Health System will present their study on the predictive value of the Fuster-BEWAT score for predicting the extent of subclinical atherosclerosis in healthy individuals, and another study exploring determinants of subclinical atherosclerosis in the absence of cardiovascular risk factors.
The updated guidelines focus on global risk assessments and non-invasive testing results, emphasizing individualized case evaluation. The revised criteria aim to improve quality of care by delivering the right treatment to the right patients.
The new guidelines provide recommendations for physicians on how to evaluate and manage patients with syncope. They include detailed history and physical examination, ECG tests, and restrictions on exercise for certain patients.
Researchers found that measuring ceramides in the blood can predict major cardiovascular events among patients with and without blockages. Ceramides were linked to a threefold to fourfold greater risk of cardiovascular events compared to those with low ceramide levels.
A small case report suggests that Zika-linked birth defects may only be 'tip of the iceberg' when it comes to cardiovascular complications. Eight of nine patients developed dangerous arrhythmias and six experienced heart failure, with symptoms manifesting on average 10 days after initial complaints.
A large US healthcare system study found that taking misoprostol with NSAIDs significantly lowers the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure compared to taking NSAIDs alone. The combination is associated with a 25-34% lower risk of these events.
Research reveals that only one-third of hospitalized smokers with heart disease received evidence-based smoking-cessation therapies, highlighting a performance gap among hospitals and cardiologists. Smokers who had lung disease or were younger than 58 years old were more likely to receive treatment.
A study found that people with high blood pressure consumed an average of 3,100 milligrams of sodium per day, more than twice the recommended daily limit. The increase was driven by rising sodium intake among Hispanics and African-Americans, groups that historically showed lower sodium intake levels.
A new review published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology concludes that eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts can reduce heart disease risk. A predominantly plant-based diet is recommended over other nutrition fads.
A recent study by the University of Leicester found that a widely used exercise test for aortic stenosis has a 60% accuracy rate, leading to thousands of unnecessary open heart operations. The test recommends valve replacement therapy for those who become breathless during the test, but actual symptoms may not develop within a year.
The eHealth revolution is transforming cardiovascular medicine with smartphone apps predicting worsening heart failure and apps warning of dangerously low blood pressure or glucose levels. Big Data analysis provides insights into the greatest impact of treatments and compares results across countries.
A new online tool uses data from the PROMISE trial to predict patients at minimal risk for heart trouble, allowing primary care doctors to safely defer non-invasive cardiac tests. The tool considers 10 clinical variables and can help clinicians quantify minimal risk, opening a conversation with patients on whether a test is worthwhile.
A Massachusetts General Hospital study found that women cardiologists are less likely to be full professors than their male counterparts, even after adjusting for factors such as age and research productivity. The disparity persists across different medical schools and specialties.
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that habitual e-cigarette users have increased cardiac sympathetic activity and oxidative stress, which are mechanisms associated with tobacco cigarette smoking. These findings suggest a potential increased cardiovascular risk profile for habitual e-cigarette users.
A new study published in JAMA Cardiology has found that habitual e-cigarette users are more likely to have increased cardiac sympathetic activity and oxidative stress compared to non-users. The findings suggest that e-cigarettes may not be harmless and warrant further research into their potential adverse cardiovascular health effects.
A study of patients undergoing catheter ablation found a significantly higher rate of brain injury due to embolism among those with left ventricle therapy compared to right ventricle therapy. Brain lesions may also be associated with cognitive decline, highlighting the need for further research and strategies to avoid these lesions.
The report showcases improvements in heart attack care, with 93% of patients receiving stents within 90 minutes. Key findings also highlight strengths and areas for improvement in other cardiovascular procedures, such as ICD therapy and congenital heart disease interventions.
The American College of Cardiology has published a new document to manage patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation who need surgery. The guideline provides guidance on temporarily stopping anticoagulation medications, choosing alternative treatments, and restarting blood thinners after surgery.
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that only 32% of patients between 30-39 years old with high LDL-C levels were prescribed statins. For those aged 40-49, the rate was 47%, while for those over 50, it was 61%. This suggests a significant gap in treatment for younger adults with severe dyslipidemia.
The study found a significant decrease in the rate of death and heart attack after noncardiac surgery, with an annual incidence of approximately 150,000 events. However, the risk of ischemic stroke increased over time, from 0.52% in 2004 to 0.77% in 2013.
The American College of Cardiology released updated appropriate use criteria for performing coronary revascularization in patients with acute coronary syndromes. The criteria provide a framework for clinicians to evaluate therapies and improve patient outcomes by facilitating shared decision making between patients and providers.
The American College of Cardiology's survey reveals that cardiologists are highly satisfied with their careers, but women face disparities in advancement opportunities and family responsibilities. The workforce is also aging, with a greater percentage of practicing physicians over 60, and private practice settings have decreased.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that women have a higher survival rate one year after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) than men, despite experiencing more complications. Women were more likely to undergo percutaneous TAVR and had worse health conditions at baseline.
Frailty is a common condition in older adults that affects physiological reserves and organ function. European experts recommend assessing frailty and tailoring cardiac rehabilitation programs to its severity, with the goal of reducing disability, improving quality of life, and mortality.
A study found that yoga significantly decreased diastolic blood pressure and night diastolic blood pressure in patients with prehypertension. Practicing hatha yoga for one hour daily may prevent hypertension development and improve overall health.
A new review published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that even moderate and habitual alcohol consumption can cause irregular heartbeat. The study analyzed data from nearly 900,000 people over 12 years and reported an 8% increase in risk for every alcoholic drink consumed per day.
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that average total cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL-C levels among US adults have decreased over the past two decades. The decline, which began between 1999 and 2010, continued through 2013/2014, with significant drops in triglycerides and LDL-C levels.
Cardiologists must adapt to emerging payment models to improve value, according to a review by George Washington University researcher Steven Farmer. The review explores existing and emerging payment and delivery reforms that will affect cardiologists and their practices.
US adults' statin use increased by 80% between 2002 and 2013, but remained low in high-risk groups. Generic statins became the dominant form of treatment, reducing costs.
A large national study confirms high-intensity statins increase survival rates for people with cardiovascular disease, including those over 75. The study found a 9% increased chance of survival for patients on high-intensity statins compared to moderate-intensity treatments.
Researchers developed a new, less invasive way to perform TAVR, making it more available to high-risk patients, especially women. The procedure has a high success rate and acceptable bleeding and vascular complications rates.
A new analysis suggests that Medicare's current system is misaligned, penalizing hospitals for low readmission rates while allowing high mortality rates. The researchers propose a revised incentive structure that would incentivize both good outcomes and patient survival.
Runlin Gao, MD, is being honored with the TCT Career Achievement Award for his groundbreaking work in establishing interventional cardiology in China. He has made significant contributions to the field through his research and education efforts.
The Geoffrey O. Hartzler Master Clinical Operator Award is presented to Dr. Patrick Whitlow, a renowned physician who advanced the field of interventional cardiology through his technical expertise and innovations. He was a pioneer in developing new devices and procedures for angioplasty and chronic total occlusions.
The 27th Great Wall International Congress of Cardiology was held in Beijing, China, with over 17,000 attendees from 32 societies. Notable speakers included Chinese Academy of Engineering members and international cardiology experts.
The European Society of Cardiology is hosting its annual congress in Paris at the end of August 2019. The event is expected to be highly successful, building on the success of the 2011 edition, which was also held in Paris and received positive reviews.
A new avatar-based application has been shown to improve symptom recognition in heart attack survivors, with a 24% increase in ability to recognize symptoms and a 15% increase in knowledge about what to do. The app is designed to be user-friendly and accessible for patients of all ages and languages.
Nearly one in three Myanmar citizens have hypertension, while half have high cholesterol. Experts warn that poor lifestyle choices are contributing to a surge in heart disease.
A study presented at the Argentine Congress of Cardiology found that smoking rates increased from 42% to 69% in heart attack patients between 2011 and 2015, coinciding with a 100% increase in cigarette affordability. Despite improved treatment for heart attacks, mortality rates remained unchanged.
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found variable accuracy of wrist-worn heart rate monitors, particularly during moderate exercise. The results suggest that these devices should be used with caution for individuals relying on them to track fitness or stay within safe heart rate thresholds.
A study analyzing the American College of Cardiology's PINNACLE registry reveals that nearly 2 out of 5 people with diabetes are not prescribed statin therapy to lower their risk of heart attack, stroke, and related death. The study found a wide variation in statin use across cardiology practices.
The Canadian Cardiovascular Society has released updated guidelines for managing atrial fibrillation, prioritizing the use of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) over warfarin. The new recommendations aim to improve patient outcomes and reduce stroke risk.
The European Society of Cardiology has published new standards to prevent repeat heart attacks, highlighting the importance of a healthy lifestyle, regular physical activity, and prescribed medication. The guidelines also emphasize the need for patients to take responsibility for their own health after a first heart attack.
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that over half of women and nearly half of men aged 18-55 experience sexual function problems after a heart attack. Women were less likely to resume sex and reported higher rates of sexual dysfunction compared to men.
After a heart attack, both men and women experience impaired sexual function, but women are less likely to be counseled on their capabilities, leading to higher problem rates. Physicians must address these issues for high-quality life outcomes.
A new clinical decision rule, HERDOO2, has been validated in the REVERSE II trial, enabling the identification of women at low risk for recurrent venous thromboembolism who can safely discontinue anticoagulants. The study found that over half of these women could stop taking anticoagulants without increasing their risk.
A first-of-its-kind randomized trial comparing two stenting techniques for coronary bifurcation lesions has found that culotte stenting is associated with lower rates of restenosis and revascularization. Culotte stenting demonstrated a statistically significant advantage over TAP stenting in terms of clinical outcomes.
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that prolonged dual antiplatelet therapy reduces the risk of death, heart attack, or stroke in patients with peripheral arterial disease undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. Concomitant PAD is associated with a 2-fold increased risk of ischemic events, but not bleeding.
A new antidote, andexanet alfa, has been shown to rapidly reverse anticoagulant effects in patients with acute major bleeding. In the ANNEXA-4 study, andexanet reduced anti-fXa activity by up to 90% within half an hour, resulting in 'excellent or good' hemostasis at 12 hours in most subjects.
A new diagnostic algorithm, YEARS, suggests a simple approach to rule out pulmonary embolism (PE) in patients, eliminating the need for computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA). The study found that using this algorithm reduced CTPA imaging by 14% while maintaining safety and efficacy.
The PRAGUE-18 trial found prasugrel and ticagrelor to be equally safe and effective for treating ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) patients. The study randomized 1,230 STEMI patients to receive either prasugrel or ticagrelor prior to primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI).
The Norwegian Coronary Stent Trial found that new-generation drug-eluting stents (DES) do not outlive or improve outcomes for patients compared to traditional bare metal stents (BMS). Despite the recommendation of DES over BMS in guidelines, the study suggests that both stent types may be suitable alternatives.
A new study published by the European Society of Cardiology found that an active strategy of detecting and treating asymptomatic multisite artery disease did not improve 2-year outcomes compared to a traditional approach. The study enrolled 521 CAD patients and found no significant difference in all-cause mortality, rehospitalization f...
Research found significant disparities in public access defibrillation program implementation across France, leading to uneven survival rates. Basic life support education was strongly correlated with improved outcomes.