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.

Reimbursement for AI-based plaque assessments is improving
A growing number of private insurers are now covering these advanced technologies. Roosha Parikh, MD, told Cardiovascular Business that the hard work of SCCT and other groups has helped make this happen.
Catheters recalled due to defect—FDA highlights risk of stroke or brain damage
The recall was put in place after a hydrophilic coating was discovered on the inside of the devices. According to the FDA, patients treated with the catheters could face a number of significant risks.
Cardiology groups share new recommendations for performing safe, effective cardiac ablations in ASCs
The timing of this new guidance from the Heart Rhythm Society and American College of Cardiology could not have been better—the document went live just as CMS finalized its decision to cover cardiac ablation procedures performed in ASCs.
IVC filter recalled due to injury risk
Customers are urged to stop using these devices right away.
FDA clears TAVR guidewire built with BASILICA in mind
The Telltale system was designed to assist cardiologists when BASILICA is required prior to TAVR.

Researchers have found that homemade play-putty can effectively capture electrocardiogram (ECG) signals at a level comparable to commercially available electrodes. The play-putty is made with a simple mix of flour, water, salt, cream of tartar and vegetable oil—but the potential is much more than one may expect.

Homemade electrodes made of putty capture heart data as well as some commercial devices

The putty, made with basic ingredients found around the house, can effectively capture ECG measurements.

Women urged to overcome radiation fears, consider a career in interventional cardiology

"The underrepresentation of women in interventional cardiology is a significant concern," according to one cardiologist behind the new campaign.

cardiologist patient heart compensation starting salary 2022 interventional cardiologist

LBBAP limits hospital readmissions after TAVR

Left bundle branch area pacing is associated with better long-term outcomes than traditional right ventricular pacing when patients require PPMI after TAVR, according to new research in Heart Rhythm.

PHOTO GALLERY: ASNC2024, the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology's annual meeting

The three-day event attracted nuclear cardiology specialists from all over the world.

Balloon-expandable transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) valves that fail to expand symmetrically may be associated with worse hemodynamic data, according to a new analysis published in JACC: Cardiovascular Interventions.

Asymmetrical valve expansion after TAVR a cause for concern

Calcified debris can sometimes lead to stent frame issues that cause a patient's TAVR valve to expand asymmetrically. Few studies have explored the potential impact of valve asymmetry—until now.

Boston Scientific has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for its INGEVITY+ pacing leads to be used for left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) when connected to a single- or dual-chamber pacemaker.

FDA approves Boston Scientific leads for left bundle branch area pacing

Boston Scientific's INGEVITY+ pacing leads were originally approved by the FDA back in 2019. They can now be used for LBBAP, a new alternative to biventricular pacing.

Royal Philips has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for its new 160-cm LumiGuide endovascular navigation wire, which uses the company’s popular Fiber Optic RealShape (FORS) technology to deliver real-time 3D visualization without the use of fluoroscopy.

FDA approves longer LumiGuide 3D navigation wire from Philips

The newly approved device comes in at 160 cm. Like the shorter LumiGuide device from Philips, it was designed to deliver real-time 3D visualization with light instead of X-rays.

Merit Medical to purchase Cook Medical’s lead management portfolio for $210M

Two medical device companies have announced a transaction that could shake up the U.S. electrophysiology market.

Cardiac Imaging

Reimbursement for AI-based plaque assessments is improving

Catheters recalled due to defect—FDA highlights risk of stroke or brain damage

Cardiology groups share new recommendations for performing safe, effective cardiac ablations in ASCs

IVC filter recalled due to injury risk

FDA clears TAVR guidewire built with BASILICA in mind