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.

Images from the consensus document showing the proper left atrial appendage (LAA) sizing assessment for a transcatheter occluder device using transesophageal echo (TEE). Sizing and evaluation for pre-existing thrombus in the LAA also can be performed using cardiac CT.

SCAI and HRS release expert consensus on transcatheter left atrial appendage occlusion

One of the new recommendations is to conduct baseline imaging with TEE or cardiac CT.

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Why women with peripheral artery disease are underdiagnosed, have worse outcomes

Using the World Health Organization’s model for analyzing gender-related healthcare needs, the authors of a new analysis aimed to explore disparities in PAD outcomes.

Example of an FFR-angio image-derived hemodynamic flow model performed tableside in the cath lab reconstructed using three different C-arm contract image acquisitions. This technology from CathWorks, which was recently acquired by Medtronic, can eliminate the need for pressure wires and adenosine to assess FFR pressures. These measurements are used to determine the hemodynamic significance of a stenosis and determine if a stent is necessary or if a patient can be treated medically.

PHOTO GALLERY: ACC.23 in New Orleans

Browse a selection of photos from the American College of Cardiology's annual meeting in New Orleans. The pictures highlight key moments, new technologies and much more from the big show. 

The SAPIEN 3 Ultra (S3U) transcatheter heart valve from Edwards Lifesciences is

Next-generation TAVR valve delivers strong outcomes, reduced PVL after one year

A team of specialists examined new outcomes data related to the SAPIEN 3 Ultra transcatheter heart valve, sharing its findings in EuroIntervention.

cardiologist patient heart compensation starting salary 2022 interventional cardiologist

Pulsed-field ablation for AFib not linked to any signs of bronchial damage

As this new ablation technique continues to gain momentum, researchers are hoping to learn as much as possible about any potential side effects. 

Shockwave L6 Peripheral IVL Catheter Shockwave Medical

Shockwave Medical launches new IVL catheter for challenging lesions in US

After its initial release was limited to certain customers, the new-look catheter is now available in four different sizes throughout the United States.

Links to all the American College of Cardiology late-breaking studies for ACC.23

Here are links to more information on every late-breaking presentation at ACC.23.

ACC 2023 program chair Douglas Drachman, MD, explains the top takeaways from the American College of Cardiology meeting. #ACC #ACC23

Key takeaways from the ACC 2023 annual meeting

ACC.23 Program Chair Doug Drachman, MD, explains what he saw as some of the key takeaways from the American College of Cardiology (ACC) 2023 annual meeting.