Angiography-derived FFR accurately diagnoses normal, abnormal vessel function

A new Harvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute study found that between 2017 and 2019 the number of non-physician providers (NPPs, which includes nurse practitioners and physician assistants) employed by radiology only practices increased 18%. This increase was associated with more NPPs employed per practice, as well as an 11% increase in the number of practices employing them. 

Fractional flow reserve (FFR) can be closely approximated using conventional coronary angiography and propriety software, according to the FAST-FFR study published online in Circulation. The findings offer a potential route for more patients with suspected coronary artery disease to receive functional assessment of lesions without the need for a guidewire or hyperemic agents.

Report: Sexual assault, harassment raises women’s risk for hypertension

The consequences of sexual harassment and assault—the former of which up to 81 percent of women say they’ve experienced at some point in their lifetime—aren’t just mental, according to a study presented at the North American Menopause Society symposium in San Diego. They’re also physical, putting women at a higher risk for hypertension and sleep disorders.