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Heart attack victims over 65 treated differently; suffer worse outcomes but have lower hospital charges, new research finds

Researchers found that older heart attack patients were less likely to receive timely percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to open blocked heart arteries, resulting in more complications and poorer outcomes. Despite longer hospital stays, older patients had lower total charges due to reduced use of costly interventions like PCI.

Non-invasive stent monitoring techniques tested

Researchers have developed a non-invasive method to detect metallic stents and their potential structural failures through microwave spectrometry. The technique showed promise in detecting stent fractures and restenosis, highlighting the potential for new approaches to cardiovascular disease treatment.

SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 25, 2018

Significant Dialysis Development

A new minimally-invasive surgical technique has been developed to create dialysis access for patients with severe kidney disease. The WavelinQ endoAVF System allows vascular surgeons to create a connection between an artery and vein using magnets, reducing the risk of complications and surgeries.

Two new USPSTF recommendation statements

The USPSTF concludes that current evidence is insufficient to make recommendations on screening for PAD and CVD risk with ABI in asymptomatic adults. Additionally, the task force finds that adding ABI, hsCRP level, and CAC score to traditional risk assessments does not prevent CVD events in asymptomatic adults.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJul 10, 2018

High-risk, undertreated mystery heart attacks occurring more commonly in women

A University of Alberta study found that nearly six per cent of patients have a heart attack without any blockage in the arteries, with five per cent experiencing another heart attack or death within one year. Patients with MINOCA are twice as likely to be female and require more aggressive preventive treatment.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalInternational Journal of Cardiology·DateMay 29, 2018

Procedure plus medication is better than standard treatment for heart disease patients

A five-year analysis of the FAME 2 trial shows that percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) along with prescribed medication is more effective than medication alone in preventing urgent hospital admissions, revascularizations, and likely heart attacks. The study found significant benefits for patients with stable coronary artery disease.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 22, 2018

Contemporary update to PROGRESS-CTO International Registry shows successful outcomes

A significant update to the PROGRESS-CTO International Registry reveals successful outcomes of Chronic Total Occlusion Percutaneous Intervention (CTO PCI) for over 3,000 patients. The study found high success rates with acceptable complications, supporting its use in experienced centers.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 27, 2018

Effect of a home-based exercise program with wearable activity monitor, telephone coaching on walking endurance for peripheral artery disease

A randomized clinical trial of 200 patients with PAD found that a home-based exercise program with a wearable activity monitor and telephone coaching did not improve walking endurance. The results suggest that traditional in-person exercise programs may be more effective in improving walking ability for this patient population.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateApr 24, 2018