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.

FDA warning alert exclamation computer

FDA warns against use of troubled heart devices, citing ‘continued concerns’ after multiple recalls

The agency is urging healthcare providers to transition away from these devices and seek out alternatives. It is even working with other manufacturers to try and get similar products on the market as quickly as possible. 

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.

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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.