Cath Lab

The cardiac catheterization laboratory is used for diagnostic angiograms and percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI). Cath labs have also seen expanding use in recent years for transcatheter structural heart procedures. Some hospitals also share these labs with other subspecialties for catheter-based procedures in electrophysiology (EP), interventional radiology, peripheral artery disease (PAD), carotid and neuro interventional procedures and vascular surgery.

FDA clears new device for enabling access to the heart’s surface without an exposed needle
CardioVia's ViaOne technology includes a blunt-tip needle that remains concealed to help interventional cardiologists and electrophysiologists treat cardiac arrhythmias with a reduced risk of perforation or any other complications.
Choosing left radial access in the cath lab helps cardiologists limit radiation exposure
Using a left radial artery approach in the cath lab exposes interventional cardiologists to significantly less radiation than a hyper-adducted right radial artery approach. The difference is substantial enough for researchers to declare LRA "the primary access site for cardiac catheterization."
Advances in bioresorbable stents show promise for treating PAD
Bioresorbable stents are back in the spotlight thanks to some significant progress from multiple medtech companies. Eric Secemsky, MD, discussed some of the biggest breakthroughs in this space at CRT 2025.
SCAI leaders 'on a mission' to improve cath lab protection from radiation, orthopedic injury
SCAI President James Hermiller, Jr., MD, explains the need for more innovative radiation protection systems in the cath lab.
Cardiologists are first in world to use new TAVR catheter from Boston Scientific
The new Self-Centering Guide Catheter was designed to help care teams with the retrograde crossing of the aortic valve during TAVR. Researchers evaluated the safety and effectiveness of the catheter, sharing their experience in JACC: Cardiovascular Interventions.

Cordis acquires MedAlliance, known for its drug-eluting balloon technology, in deal that could surpass $1B

Cordis to acquire MedAlliance, known for its drug-eluting balloons, in deal that could surpass $1B

The acquisition includes an initial investment of $35 million and an upfront closing payment of $200 million. By 2029, if the companies reach all targeted regulatory and commercial milestones, the acquisition could cost Cordis up to $1.135 billion in all.

TEER reduces mitral regurgitation, boosts survival among cardiogenic shock patients

Researchers tracked outcomes data and imaging results from nearly 4,000 TEER patients, sharing their findings in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

Albuminuria linked to worse TAVR outcomes, including a higher risk of death

“Because patients with aortic stenosis are old and commonly have chronic kidney disease, it is essential to evaluate the renal function before TAVR," the study's authors wrote. “Albuminuria indicates glomerular injury and is an important factor in the assessment of renal function or diagnosis of chronic kidney disease."

LAAO equally effective for men and women, new long-term study confirms

In-hospital complications are more common among women who undergo LAAO than men. However, according to a new study in JACC: Cardiovascular Interventions, men and women have similar long-term outcomes.

mixed reality LAAO Chase Western Reserve MRI

Researchers receive $3.7M to attempt robotic heart surgery inside MRI scanner

The group—which includes engineers, cardiologist, radiologists and other specialists—will attempt to perform a robotic-controlled left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) on a patient inside an MRI scanner.

transcarotid TAVR TAVI transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Transcarotid TAVR a safe alternative when femoral access is not an option

The conventional transfemoral approach is not always possible during TAVR procedures, leaving care teams with an important decision to make.

Impella Heart Pump Abiomed RECOVER IV RCT cardiogenic shock

Impella heart pumps linked to improved high-risk PCI outcomes

Researchers examined data from patients who underwent high-risk PCI with either an Impella heart pump or an intra-aortic balloon pump.

An updated look at how cognitive impairment affects TAVR outcomes

The connection between cognitive impairment and postoperative delirium among TAVR patients stood out as a definite concern to the study's authors.

Cath Lab

FDA clears new device for enabling access to the heart’s surface without an exposed needle

Choosing left radial access in the cath lab helps cardiologists limit radiation exposure

Advances in bioresorbable stents show promise for treating PAD

SCAI leaders 'on a mission' to improve cath lab protection from radiation, orthopedic injury

Cardiologists are first in world to use new TAVR catheter from Boston Scientific