This Week in Cardiology

Discover the latest hypertension guidelines emphasizing prompt treatment and the importance of careful management. Learn about the surprising impacts of ultra-processed foods on cardiometabolic health. Explore innovative solutions for refractory angina, including the promising coronary sinus reducer. Plus, delve into the effectiveness of pulsed field ablation for atrial fibrillation, revealing its advantages over traditional methods. A crucial listen for keeping up with advancements in cardiovascular care!

Listener feedback on the Surpass Cardiovascular Outcomes Trial reveals key insights about diabetes medications and heart health. A deep dive into atrial fibrillation ablation techniques showcases the debate between catheter and surgical approaches. An FDA alert warns of air embolism risks associated with Watchman systems, sparking concerns among medical professionals. Lastly, managing anticoagulation in frail elderly patients presents unique challenges, spotlighting recent trials that guide treatment decisions.

Exercise and CV outcomes, aldosterone modulation, AI for ECG reading, GLP-1 comparisons, end-of-life decisions, and another well-meaning policy that caused harm in veterans are discussed by John Mandrola, MD, in this week’s podcast. This podcast is intended for healthcare professionals only. To read a partial transcript or to comment, visit: https://www.medscape.com/twic I Exercise and CV outcomes II Aldosterone Modulation in Cardio-Kidney Disease Aldosterone and Aldosterone Modulation https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2025.06.012 Randomized Aldactone Evaluation Study https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJM199909023411001 III AI vs MD ECG-Reading for Cath Lab Activation Accuracy of Cath Lab Activation Decisions https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajem.2025.07.061 IV Tirzepatide vs Dulaglutide - SURPASS CVOT Study Eli Lilly Press Release https://investor.lilly.com/news-releases/news-release-details/lillys-mounjaro-tirzepatide-gipglp-1-dual-agonist-demonstrated REWIND Study 10.1016/S0140-6736(19)31149-3 External Link V End-of-Life Decisions Doctors’ Own End-of-Life Choices Defy Common Medical Practice https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/doctors-own-end-life-choices-defy-common-medical-practice-2025a1000k01 Physicians’ Preferences for Their Own End of Life https://jme.bmj.com/content/early/2025/06/05/jme-2024-110192 How US Doctors Die: A Cohort Study https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jgs.14112 VI Well-Meaning Policies That Make Sense   The Mission Act and Cardiovascular Procedures https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2837067 You may also like: The Bob Harrington Show with the Stephen and Suzanne Weiss Dean of Weill Cornell Medicine, Robert A. Harrington, MD. https://www.medscape.com/author/bob-harrington Questions or feedback, please contact news@medscape.net

Discover the surprising cardiac risks of endurance athletes revealed in the VENTOUX study, highlighting potential heart issues tied to intense training. Uncover the truth behind the 10,000-step myth, as new research suggests even 7,000 steps can boost health. Delve into the debate over rate versus rhythm control for atrial fibrillation and learn about the impact of GLP-1 drugs in observational studies, linking them to neurodegeneration and stroke. It's a deep dive into the complexities of heart health!

Discover the latest on finerenone's FDA approval for heart failure and the complexities of choosing between TAVI and surgical AVR for aortic stenosis. Dive into the risks of catheter ablation, including brain lesions and visual migraines, as revealed by the TRAVERSE trial. The discussion also evaluates the impacts of atrial fibrillation treatments on brain health. With critiques of recent studies and a hopeful look at healthcare policy reforms, there's a wealth of engaging insights for healthcare professionals.

Dive into the world of cardiology controversies, including the heated debate over ticagrelor's efficacy and safety in trials. Discover insights on the longevity of ICD batteries and what it means for patient care. The PRAGUE-25 trial is highlighted as a pivotal study this year, stimulating discussions on the future of electrophysiology as a profession. The episode also features personal anecdotes blending professional insights with lighthearted moments from recent celebrations.

Discover groundbreaking news as the FDA approves a triple-drug polypill for hypertension, igniting discussions on its pros and cons. Explore evolving views on managing hypertension, especially in elderly patients. Dive into innovative invasive therapies for pulmonary embolism, revealing both techniques and knowledge gaps. Heart disease trends and the increasing urgency of diabetes care are also highlighted, showcasing the latest in cardiology. Tune in for expert insights and a blend of humor on these vital health topics!

Delve into the cutting-edge world of cardiac imaging with a focus on coronary CT angiography. Discover how CTA influences patient management and risk assessment. Insights from the Scott Heart trials reveal surprising relationships between symptoms and coronary plaque. Furthermore, a critical evaluation of the new EVOQUE valve raises important questions about its real-world effectiveness. Join the discussion on how these advancements reshape cardiology.

Listeners weigh in on cardiac sarcoidosis and the use of imaging for risk assessment. The podcast tackles the complexities of sinus node ablation and the need for careful treatment approaches. It also dives into the challenges faced in recruiting patients for critical cardiovascular trials, shedding light on the implications for study outcomes and evidence validity. Additionally, there's a discussion on surgical atrial fibrillation ablation during CABG, highlighting the need for more robust research.

Listener feedback shines light on cardiac sarcoidosis and emerging awareness of bystander CPR. Experts discuss the phrase 'less is more' in post-stent antiplatelet therapy for better outcomes. Lipoprotein(a) is explored as a significant factor in cardiovascular risk. The complexities of managing atrial fibrillation in patients with heart failure are dissected, emphasizing the need for collaboration with specialists. Engaging insights prompt healthcare professionals to rethink patient care strategies.