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Depression linked with increased risk of peripheral artery disease

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found an association between depression and peripheral artery disease. The researchers discovered that patients who were depressed at the beginning of the study had a higher likelihood of developing PAD during follow-up. Lifestyle modifications such as being more...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateAug 8, 2012

NIH study shows survival advantage for bypass surgery compared with non-surgical procedure

A new comparative effectiveness study found that older adults who underwent bypass surgery had better long-term survival rates than those who underwent a non-surgical procedure to improve blood flow to the heart muscle. After four years, the CABG group had a 21 percent lower mortality rate compared to the PCI group.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 27, 2012

Not equal: Quality of care, cost for PAD sufferers

A study of over 14,000 Medicare patients with peripheral arterial disease found that treatment by interventional radiologists results in better patient outcomes and lower costs. The study suggests that consumers have a choice in selecting healthcare providers and can expect varying levels of quality and cost depending on the specialist

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateJan 3, 2012

Improved technology may obviate need for drug when assessing patients for a coronary stent

A new method for measuring artery narrowing could eliminate the need for a drug in assessing patients for a coronary stent. The investigational technique, termed instant wave-Free Ratio (iFR), produced similar results to existing methods and is being developed by Imperial College London and Volcano Corporation.

SourceImperial College London·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateDec 7, 2011

The next stage of heart function testing

A new technique measures myocardial perfusion reserve and volume reserve to predict severe stenosis in coronary arteries. This method detects 50% or greater narrowing with excellent sensitivity, enabling timely intervention for high-risk patients.

SourceSpringer·JournalEuropean Radiology·DateOct 10, 2011

'Back-up system' reduces heart disease deaths

Researchers found that patients with well-developed coronary collaterals have a 36% reduced risk of mortality from heart disease. The study suggests promoting natural bypass vessels through lifestyle factors and potential treatments, such as external counterpulsation or injections with growth factor G-CSF.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateSep 29, 2011