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.

cardiologist preparing to perform radiofrequency ablation

Colchicine after AFib ablation fails to reduce risk of arrhythmia recurrence

However, the popular anti-inflammatory drug was linked to at least one other clinical benefit cardiologists should know about. 

Regularly eating avocados is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, according to a new study.

Fasting before cardiac catheterization may not be necessary—recommend a heart-healthy diet instead

“Patients can safely continue oral intake until the time of the procedure, improving their satisfaction and comfort without adverse events,” researchers wrote.

artificial intelligence consultation

Imaging specialists partner with Pfizer to deliver AI-powered cardiac amyloidosis evaluations

Improving care for patients with cardiac amyloidosis has emerged as one of the hottest topics in cardiology. Pfizer helped kickstart that trend in 2019 when it gained FDA approval for two separate medications for the rare, but potentially fatal disease. 

TAVR after mitral valve replacement

TAVR after mitral valve replacement linked to positive outcomes, but heart teams must plan ahead

Researchers in India performed TAVR on two relatively young patients with a preexisting mechanical mitral valve, sharing their experience in a new case report. The group highlighted the importance of planning ahead.

Anne Kroman, DO, PhD, Medical University of South Carolina, discusses trends in EP device lead management.

Why long-term EP lead management is as important as ever

Anne Kroman, DO, PhD, noted that early, aggressive treatment is critical when EP leads need to be removed. 

transesophageal echocardiography (TEE)

New expert guidelines: Start PHV evaluations with echocardiography, but other imaging modalities can provide value

New guidelines from the American Society of Echocardiography, made in collaboration with the Society for Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance and Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography, represent an update of the group's original recommendations from 2009.

Occlutech gains FDA approval for occluder device for atrial septal defects

Occlutech gains FDA approval for occluder device for atrial septal defects

According to CEO Sabine Bois, a veteran of the medical device industry, this approval represents a "significant leap forward" in the company's commitment to heart patients. 

AI artificial intelligence stethoscope doctor

AI models for predicting heart failure still far from perfect

Advanced AI models can evaluate a patient's heart failure risk using 12-lead ECG data—but there is still some room for improvement.