Cardionerds: A Cardiology Podcast

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Michelle Kittleson, a leading heart failure expert at Cedars-Sinai, and Dr. Jason Feinman, a cardiology fellow, delve into the complexities of advanced heart therapies. They explore the signs of end-stage heart failure, the importance of a multidisciplinary evaluation team, and the balancing act between LVADs and heart transplants. Dr. Kittleson shares insights on patient selection, ethical considerations, and future advancements in heart failure care, making it a must-listen for aspiring cardiologists.

Join four leading experts in cardio-obstetrics as they redefine care for women from preconception to postpartum. Dr. Rina Mauricio highlights the importance of proper counseling for patients with existing heart conditions. Dr. Afshan Hameed discusses historical maternal mortality and the need for collaborative care. Dr. Doreen DeFaria Yeh shares insights on managing complex pregnancies with congenital heart disease. Lastly, Dr. Garima Sharma emphasizes the necessity of equitable access to care, including telemedicine and community screenings, to prevent gaps in maternal healthcare.

In this discussion, Dr. Varun Sundaram, a renowned cardiologist focused on heart failure, and Dr. Sanjeev Saksena, an expert electrophysiologist, delve into the TRANSFORM-AF Trial's groundbreaking findings. They explore how GLP-1 receptor agonists may reduce atrial fibrillation events in diabetic patients with obesity. The trial revealed a significant 13% decrease in AF-related hospitalizations and emphasized the need for early intervention in managing AF. Additionally, they discuss the potential of GLP-1 benefits beyond weight loss and the crucial role of inflammation in AF and heart failure.

Dr. Jonathan Chrispin, an electrophysiologist at Johns Hopkins, dives into the acute management of atrial fibrillation. He discusses critical topics like the balance between rate and rhythm control strategies, emphasizing the importance of understanding triggers and underlying causes. Listeners learn about medication options for rate control, the nuances of managing AF in critically ill patients, and the significance of achieving euvolemia for successful cardioversion. Dr. Chrispin also reflects on his passion for arrhythmia physiology, making for an engaging and informative discussion.

In this insightful conversation, Dr. Mariell Jessup, Chief Science and Medical Officer of the American Heart Association, and Dr. Nosheen Reza, advanced heart failure specialist at the University of Pennsylvania, tackle the challenges facing women in advanced heart failure and transplant cardiology. They reflect on the evolution of the field, the importance of mentorship and sponsorship, and the systemic barriers that persist. Both guests share personal experiences and advocate for a future of equity and innovation, inspiring listeners to support women's leadership in medicine.

Dr. Leigh Reardon, a pediatric and adult congenital cardiologist at UCLA, shares his unique journey as both a provider and a patient with congenital heart disease. He discusses the emotional impact of feeling 'defective' and how these experiences inform his empathetic approach to care. Dr. Reardon highlights barriers in healthcare, the vital role of advocacy, and the importance of Camp Del Corazon in fostering community. He also discusses strategies for improving health systems and the significance of long-term relationships with patients.

Dr. Prash Sanders, a Professor of Medicine and Electrophysiology at the University of Adelaide, joins the discussion on atrial fibrillation. He highlights the importance of lifestyle management in reducing AFib symptoms, addressing factors like obesity, sleep apnea, and alcohol consumption. The conversation delves into the evolving connection between sleep disorders and AF, alongside personalized approaches for risk factor management. They also emphasize the need for collaborative healthcare strategies and policy changes to promote healthier living for AF patients.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Tony Bavry, a leading expert in interventional cardiology, and Dr. Parth Desai, a structural interventional cardiologist, dive deep into asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis. They explore the complexities of managing these patients and the significance of rigorous evaluation and risk stratification. Recent clinical trials, including Recovery and Avatar, shed light on early surgical interventions. The transformative impact of TAVR is also highlighted, showcasing how innovative techniques are revolutionizing treatment and improving patient outcomes.

Neel Patel, Victoria Odeleye, and Jay Ramsay, all fellows from the University of Tennessee, Nashville, dive into a rare case of a ruptured saccular aortic aneurysm. They discuss the patient's complex history, emphasizing the challenges of diagnosing and managing such a condition amid acute hemodynamic collapse. Andrew Zurick, an expert in imaging, highlights the critical role echocardiography played in understanding this life-threatening case. Together, they explore the interplay of multifactorial risks and the urgency in surgical interventions to address this cardiovascular emergency.

Dr. Juma Bin Firos, a PGY2 internal medicine resident passionate about interventional cardiology, joins Dr. Aishwarya Verma, a cardiology fellow, and Dr. Mohammed Ali-Jazayeri, a clinical electrophysiologist. They dive into an intriguing case of a healthy young man experiencing exercise-induced malignant ventricular arrhythmias. The group discusses advanced diagnostic tools like EKG and electrophysiology studies, the challenge of identifying hidden cardiac issues, and the evolution of ICD technology tailored to patient needs. A riveting exploration of cardiac mysteries awaits!