Heart Podcast

Prof Abdulla Damluji from Johns Hopkins University discusses sarcopenia and aortic valve disease with valuable insights on the correlation, impact on TAVR patients, combating sarcopenia in elderly individuals, and future research directions for enhanced outcomes.

Dr Piter Vriesendorp and Dr Sam Heuts discuss the effectiveness of cerebral protection devices in TAVI procedures. They review randomized trials, emphasize the collaboration between cardiologists and surgeons, and analyze the impact of stroke protection devices on elderly patients. The guests also explore Bayesian meta-analysis, minimal clinically important difference in treatment benefits, and express gratitude for the insightful discussion.

Dr. Ali Vazir from The Royal Brompton Hospital discusses sleep-disordered breathing and its connection to cardiovascular disease. Key topics include screening cardiovascular patients, investigation methods, and addressing gaps in research for treating this condition. The podcast highlights the importance of awareness and intervention for better patient outcomes.

Professor Finn Akerstrom from Karolinska Institute discusses AF ablation and mortality. They compare observational and randomized studies, patient characteristics pre and post ablation, mortality reduction benefits, limitations of observational studies, and need for randomized trials like Cabana.

Dr Grace Dibben discusses evidence and guidelines for exercise training in heart failure patients, highlighting barriers to uptake. The importance of tailored exercise programs based on individual symptoms and limitations is emphasized. Different types of heart failure and exercise training options are explored, including center-based versus home-based programs.

Dr. Tom Burgoine and Dr. Chris Wilkinson discuss the distribution of AEDs in relation to deprivation in Great Britain. They explore unequal access based on socioeconomic status and the importance of quick defibrillator access in emergencies. The podcast highlights strategic placement, policy changes, and the need for public awareness to save lives.

Dr Akshay Gaur and Dr David Warriner discuss caring for elderly patients with heart conditions, emphasizing the role of a cardio geriatrician. They explore challenges such as managing heart failure in the elderly, treatment options, and complexities of acute coronary syndromes in older adults. Specialized care for complex heart conditions like aortic stenosis and mitral valve disease is highlighted.

Dr. Tomio Tran and Prof. James Rudd discuss using smartwatches to measure VO2 max in ACHD patients, comparing it to CPET testing. They explore challenges in interpreting data, correlation between methods, and potential benefits for monitoring and prognosis. Highlighting the integration of smartwatches in routine care and the need for further research.

Cardiac surgeon Norman Briffa discusses anti-thrombotic strategies post valve intervention, exploring challenges and guidelines. They delve into thrombus formation on valve prostheses, personalized anticoagulation therapy, and the challenges of NOACs for patients with mechanical heart valves.

Discussion on global ASCVD risk prediction tools, regional variations in scoring systems, emerging risk factors like calcium artery scoring and polygenic risk scores, and opportunities for improving cardiovascular risk prediction worldwide, including in low and middle-income countries