Structural Heart Disease

Structural heart diseases include any issues preventing normal cardiovascular function due to damage or alteration to the anatomical components of the heart. This is caused by aging, advanced atherosclerosis, calcification, tissue degeneration, congenital heart defects and heart failure. The most commonly treated areas are the heart valves, in particular the mitral and aortic valves. These can be replaced through open heart surgery or using cath lab-based transcatheter valves or repairs to eliminate regurgitation due to faulty valve leaflets. This includes transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Other common procedures include left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion and closing congenital holes in the heart, such as PFO and ASD. A growing area includes transcatheter mitral repair or replacement and transcatheter tricuspid valve repair and replacement.

New TAVR research explores adverse outcomes, disease progression in patients with asymptomatic severe AS
Two separate studies at ACC.25 explored data from the EARLY TAVR trial. One analysis included stroke findings that surprised researchers.
Dapagliflozin improves outcomes for elderly TAVR patients with heart failure
The positive data were presented as part of a late-breaking clinical trial at ACC.25 in Chicago. One cardiologist on stage for the presentation said these findings will impact the way he manages certain TAVR patients.
Bringing state-of-the-art healthcare to Florida heart patients
Naples Comprehensive Health is building up what it hopes will be a nationally recognized cardiology program. Robert Cubeddu, MD, and Dee Dee Wang, MD, spoke with Cardiovascular Business about the journey so far.
Cardiologists make case against routine interventions for asymptomatic severe AS
Aortic valve replacement is likely inevitable for patients with asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis. Immediately performing TAVR or SAVR, however, may not always be the answer.
First comprehensive T-TEER resource examines best practices for tricuspid valve repair
"We wanted to ensure that every interventionalist, regardless of location or resources, has access to the best information possible," one co-author said.

The Medtronic CoreValve Evolute on display at ACC 2022. The valve performed better than surgical valved in terms on structural deterioration. #ACC22

Redo TAVR appears feasible for most patients with supra-annular, self-expanding Evolut valves

Researchers evaluated data from more than 200 patients who underwent redo TAVR, noting that women and patients with a higher BMI faced a higher risk of coronary flow compromise.

layoffs staff cuts termination workforce

Medtronic laying off undisclosed number of employees to reduce costs

“These decisions are never easy, and we’re taking great care to treat all impacted employees with dignity and respect," the company told Cardiovascular Business in a statement.

ACS and revascularization after TAVR: New data on a high-risk scenario

“It is vital to identify patients who are at a high risk for ACS after TAVR for potential treatment beforehand,” according a new analysis published in the American Journal of Cardiology.

The LuX-Valve Plus transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement (TTVR) device

Cardiologists make history, perform TTVR with new-look valve for first time in U.S.

The new valve was placed inside the damaged valve via a catheter that is inserted through a small incision in the patient's neck.

TAVR vs. SAVR in patients with pure aortic regurgitation: Key insights from a new Cleveland Clinic study

Patients with pure native AR are often excluded from clinical trials comparing TAVR and SAVR, leading to a lack of clarity when it comes to the proper treatment of this population.

AI predicts the likelihood of a common TAVR complication

Many patients still require a permanent pacemaker following TAVR. In fact, it is more common after TAVR than after surgical aortic valve replacement.

ACURATE neo2 valve linked to successful commissural alignment during TAVR

The new Boston Scientific valve received CE mark approval in 2020, but has not been approved by the FDA.

Medtronic launches Evolut FX TAVR system aortic stenosis

New feature found on Evolut FX valve helps cardiologists confirm commissural alignment during TAVR

Commissural alignment is especially important now, researchers explained, because TAVR is being recommended for younger patients with longer life expectancies.

Structural Heart Disease

New TAVR research explores adverse outcomes, disease progression in patients with asymptomatic severe AS

Dapagliflozin improves outcomes for elderly TAVR patients with heart failure

Bringing state-of-the-art healthcare to Florida heart patients

Cardiologists make case against routine interventions for asymptomatic severe AS

First comprehensive T-TEER resource examines best practices for tricuspid valve repair