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.

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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.

Robocath acquired by Stereotaxis

Stereotaxis to acquire robotic PCI company Robocath for up to $45M

The deal includes an upfront payment of $20 million. Stereotaxis could pay up to an additional $25 million if certain regulatory and commercial milestones are met.

Heart cardiologists doctors surgery

PFA associated with heightened stroke risk

PFA is still quite safe overall. However, new data out of EHRA 2026 suggest cardiologists have much to learn about minimizing risk during treatment. 

Protaryx Transseptal Puncture Device

FDA clears next-gen device for left-heart access

Early data linked the device with short crossing times, reduced fluoro exposure and no device-related adverse events.

AI lawsuit court legal

Heartflow sues cardiology AI rival Cleerly over alleged patent infringement

According to Heartflow, Cleerly's actions represent “one of the most egregious examples of piracy in the medical technology industry.” Cleerly commented on the lawsuit, defending the value and integrity of its products.