South Korean researchers are working on packing the ability to monitor heart health and detect signs of atrial fibrillation into what might be the smallest cardiology wearable to date: a “smart ring.”

The bioresorbable vascular scaffold, once an exciting prospect for cardiologists, saw a unique rise and fall in popularity within a year of its introduction to the CV market.

As rates of infective endocarditis among intravenous drug users skyrocket, cardiologists are finding that treating the heart condition without addressing the disease of addiction contributes to readmissions and mortality. 

Clinical trials presented at ACC.19 flipped the script on TAVR vs. SAVR. 

Atrial fibrillation patients with coronary artery disease pose a delicate balancing act for physicians. A growing awareness of bleeding vs. ischemic risks could soon lead to a steadier therapeutic response.

The global market for transcatheter treatment of the mitral and aortic valves is expected to increase from $4 billion to $8 billion in the next five years, but barriers exist. 

Telehealth enthusiasts are optimistic about telestenting’s potential to solve access-to-care issues but concede that significant obstacles must be overcome before it will be ready for prime time.

BioCardia’s AVANCE steerable introducer family has received FDA 510(k) clearance, the company announced May 8.