Clinical

This channel newsfeed includes clinical content on treating patients or the clinical implications in a variety of cardiac subspecialties and disease states. The channel includes news on cardiac surgery, interventional cardiologyheart failure, electrophysiologyhypertension, structural heart disease, use of pharmaceuticals, and COVID-19.   

Michigan has become the 20th state to opt out from federal regulations that require physician supervision of certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs). The move was made to ensure access to value-based, high-quality care across the state, but it is being opposed by the Michigan Society of Anesthesiologists (MSA) and several other physician groups. Image from the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA)

FTC settles antitrust lawsuit against private equity-backed anesthesiology chain

Federal regulators alleged that U.S. Anesthesia Partners—a portfolio company of Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowes—engaged in a “roll-up scheme” in Texas that effectively eliminated the competition. The company denies the allegations, but has agreed to undisclosed terms that would see the lawsuit resolved. 

B. Braun Medical’s Lactated Ringer’s Injections

IV fluids recalled over possible contamination—patients face risk of vascular complications

Particulate matter may be present in certain 1-liter containers of B. Braun Medical's Lactated Ringer's Injections. If this enters a patient's circulatory system, it could lead to a series of adverse events.

Physician warning

FDA warns public about vascular device after 3 deaths

The FDA is still investigating this issue. For now, the agency recommends considering alternative treatment options when possible.

Ultreon 3.0 Abbott

Abbott gains FDA clearance, CE mark approval for AI-powered imaging platform

Ultreon 3.0 was built to capture and evaluate OCT images, providing real-time guidance during complex PCI procedures.

The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) is entering a new chapter as Dawn Abbott, MD, MSCAI, who assumeed the presidency this week with a focus on strengthening the future of interventional cardiology through workforce development, expanded training pathways and continued efforts to broaden inclusion in the specialty. #SCAI2026 #SCAI26

New SCAI President Dawn Abbott outlines workforce training and inclusion priorities

SCAI President Dawn Abbott, MD, MSCAI, aims to turn attention toward the long-term sustainability of the interventional cardiology field.

FDA recall medical device recall product recall

Boston Scientific pacemakers recalled again—software update now available

The new Class I recall, which includes more than 1.4 million devices, is related to an issue first announced back in 2024. Updating the software should address the issue going forward, though some patients may still require an early replacement. 

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

Fewer stents, positive outcomes: Sirolimus-eluting balloons a safe alternative during PCI

Using a DCB that releases sirolimus over an extended period of time appears to be both safe and effective when treating patients who present with NSTEMI or unstable angina.

GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1-RAs) have become the wonder drug not only of weight loss, but also for improving cardiovascular health in a growing number of positive cardiovascular trials. The latest study of more than 13,000 patients presented at Heart Rhythm 2026 this week showed the GLP-1 reduce atrial fibrillation (AFib) and survival, even after accounting for the drug’s impact on weight loss.

Multiple GLP-1 drugs linked to lower AFib risk

The popular drugs, originally developed to treat diabetes, were also associated with an improved survival rate. Benefits were seen in patients who did and did not lose significant weight as a result of treatment.