Cardiac Imaging

While cardiac ultrasound is the widely used imaging modality for heart assessments, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and nuclear imaging are also used and are often complimentary, each offering specific details about the heart other modalities cannot. For this reason the clinical question being asked often determines the imaging test that will be used.

Nathan McConkey, DO, MPH, an electrophysiologist with Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), made history when he used the Magic Magnetic Interventional Ablation Catheter.

Cardiologist makes ‘Magic,’ performs first procedure in US with new-look ablation catheter

Users guide the robotically navigated catheter using computer-controlled magnetic fields. It gained FDA approval in January.

Compensation for U.S. cardiologists is up across the board, according to a recent survey published by MedAxiom, an American College of Cardiology company. The report identified similar trends for cardiovascular surgeons, highlighting the country’s high demand for all heart specialists in 2024 and beyond.

How to prevent the most common complication after heart surgery

The Society of Thoracic Surgeons put together an expert committee to examine the prevention and treatment of new-onset postoperative atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery. The group shared recommendations for before, during and after treatment.

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FDA clears next-gen hybrid system for intravascular imaging

Conavi Medical's new hybrid imaging system simultaneously performs IVUS and OCT.

Heart Rhythm 2025 Heart Rhythm Society President Kenneth A. Ellenbogen, MD

Heart Rhythm 2026 to feature late-breaking EP data, hands-on training and more

Heart Rhythm 2026 in Chicago will include a total of 18 late-breaking clinical trials—and that is just the beginning. The four-day event kicks off April 23.

artificial intelligence consultation

Another win for opportunistic screening: AI turns head CT scans into heart assessments

AI can help care teams get additional value out of routine head CT images.

pediatric patient young patient child chlidren kid

FDA approves fast-acting heart drug for children

Landiolol, sold under the brand name Rapiblyk, is only meant to be administered in a hospital setting. It was initially approved for adult patients in 2024.

One of the big late-breaking trials presented at the 2026 American College of Cardiology (ACC) Scientific Sessions was the CHAMPION-AF, which showed left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) can offer a safe, non-drug alternative to anticoagulation therapy, even in patients with atrial fibrillation who are not at high risk for bleeding. First author of the study Shephal Doshi, MD, FACC, an electrophysiologist at Cedars Sinai Smidt Heart Institute, discussed the details of the trial. #LAAO #ACC #ACC26

New data point to LAAO as a safe alternative to long-term drug therapy

At the end of the day, one electrophysiologist explained, these decisions should still be made on a case-by-case basis.

heart drugs with stethoscope

Long-term antidepressant use may increase risk of sudden cardiac death

The risk appears to be greatest when patients are still actively taking antidepressants. Researchers noted that many more studies on this topic are still necessary.