The FDA has approved the third generation of the MitraClip, which treats mitral regurgitation without open-heart surgery, device manufacturer Abbott announced July 12.

For decades, cardiologists have insisted patients take it easy after a heart attack—but younger physicians believe in encouraging patients be active, and even run, because exercise decreases the chances of a subsequent cardiac event.

The FDA has cleared a less-invasive implant approach for Medtronic’s HeartWare HVAD system, allowing the left ventricular assist device (LVAD) to be placed through a small incision between the ribs. It is the first LVAD approved in the U.S. to be inserted with this technique, according to Medtronic.

A program designed to help hypertensive patients with complex medication regimens understand the drugs they are prescribed not only failed to improve adherence, but it actually raised their blood pressure.

Black men and women have higher incidences of hypertension by the age of 55 compared to white men and women, according to a study published July 11 in the Journal of the American Heart Association.

Scientists are beginning to explore whether infusing heart tissue with mitochondria can restore function to oxygen-deprived cells after a heart attack. The technique has potential in both pediatric and adult patients, according to an article in The New York Times.

The American Red Cross declared an emergency blood shortage on July 9, calling for donations of all blood types—but especially type O—as the agency scrambles to make up for the Fourth of July holiday week.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) issued a Grade I recommendation for screening peripheral artery disease (PAD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk with the ankle-brachial index (ABI), indicating current evidence is insufficient to recommend screening without signs or symptoms of disease.