Interventional Cardiology

This cardiac subspecialty uses minimally invasive, catheter-based technologies in a cath lab to diagnose and treat coronary artery disease (CAD). The main focus in on percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) to revascularize patients with CAD that is causing blockages resulting in ischemia or myocardial infarction. PCI mainly consists of angioplasty and implanting stents. Interventional cardiology has greatly expanded in scope over recent years to include a number of transcatheter structural heart interventions.

Resilia tissue developed by Edwards Lifesciences linked to long-term benefits
Researchers tracked nearly 1,000 SAVR patients, presenting eight-year data at the Heart Valve Society’s annual meeting in Cairo, Egypt.
FDA warns that certain coronary imaging catheters are being removed from market over safety concerns
A catheter sheath detached during use and was left in the patient’s body. It was successfully removed, but the FDA said it is now evaluating the potential risk to others going forward. There is no official recall at this time.
Cardiologist-founded startup announces FDA clearance, first uses of new TAVR pacing system
“The device takes variability out of the procedure by giving the operator full control while automating ramp-up and back-up algorithms," according to a clinician who used the new technology. "The TAVR procedure is simplified, reducing physician and staff workload."
Death after 1 year more common for real-world low-risk TAVR patients than those treated in clinical trials
Real-world patients were still associated with "excellent" outcomes, but it is important for cardiologists and patients alike to know as much as possible about the odds of survival following treatment.
FDA clears catheter-based 4D visualization platform for complex heart procedures
The new technology from LUMA Vision allows operators to deliver 2D and 4D ultrasound images in real time. The advanced catheter was built with maneuverability and increased visibility in mind.

Faluso Fakorede, MD, interventional cardiologiost, explains how health disparities serve as a primary driver of 400 amputations a day because patients are not accessing healthcare.

Health disparities are causing serious harm, leading to 400 amputations per day

Interventional cardiologist Foluso Fakorede, MD, says everything from limited specialists to a lack of sidewalks are causing a disproportionate rate of minorities to be caught in the current PAD and CLI epidemic.

doctor examines patient data on their tablet

Moderate aortic stenosis linked to heightened risk of death—should TAVR, surgery be considered?

Researchers tracked data from more than 400,000 patients for a new meta-analysis, presenting their findings in the Journal of the American Heart Association.

Hēlo PE Thrombectomy System developed by U.S. medical device company Endovascular Engineering

Dual-action thrombectomy device could give cardiologists a new tool for treating acute PE

The new device is believed to be the first of its kind, using both aspiration and mechanical clot disruption to remove blood clots.

Interventional cardiologist James B. Hermiller, MD, is officially the new president of the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions (SCAI).

SCAI president begins term on optimistic note: ‘Our field’s future is brighter than ever’

Interventional cardiologist James B. Hermiller, MD, officially assumed the position at the end of SCAI 2024 Scientific Sessions.

The DurAVR TAVR system from Anteris Technologies

New-look TAVR valve shows early promise in patients with severe AS

One-year data presented at SCAI's annual meeting suggest interventional cardiologists could soon have a new way to treat severe aortic stenosis.

ChatGPT passes interventional cardiology certification exam

The popular AI chatbot's performance highlighted both its strengths and its weaknesses. It can answer multiple-choice questions, for example, but it struggles with consistency.

A transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedure being performed at Intermountain Healthcare. Image from Intermountain Healthcare

TAVR linked to lower stroke risk than SAVR in patients with AS and cardiogenic shock

TAVR is also associated with a lower risk of acute kidney injury in this patient population. In-hospital mortality rates, however, are similar between the two treatment options.

Radial vs. femoral access during PCI: Real-world data show proof of a ‘sea change’ in cardiology

The use of radial access during PCI procedures is increasing throughout the United States, and new data presented at the SCAI's annual meeting suggest that could be beneficial for patients.

Interventional Cardiology

Resilia tissue developed by Edwards Lifesciences linked to long-term benefits

FDA warns that certain coronary imaging catheters are being removed from market over safety concerns

Cardiologist-founded startup announces FDA clearance, first uses of new TAVR pacing system

Death after 1 year more common for real-world low-risk TAVR patients than those treated in clinical trials

FDA clears catheter-based 4D visualization platform for complex heart procedures