Cardionerds: A Cardiology Podcast

Dr. Andrew Epstein, an electrophysiologist and professor at the University of Pennsylvania, dives deep into the world of anti-arrhythmic drugs. He explains the roles of class IC and class III agents in managing atrial fibrillation, detailing their mechanisms, efficacy, and patient selection. The conversation highlights the advantages of drugs alongside catheter ablation, emphasizes monitoring for side effects, and compares treatments like amiodarone and digoxin. Epstein's insights into drug interactions and individualized therapy provide vital knowledge for practitioners.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Dave Kaczorowski, a cardiothoracic surgeon from UPMC, and Dr. Jason Katz, a transplant cardiologist at NYU, dive into the intricate world of heart transplantation. They explore the critical criteria for donor selection, differences between DBD and DCD organ donors, and the importance of multi-disciplinary teams. The duo also covers post-operative care strategies, including vasoactive management and recognizing complications like cardiac tamponade. Tune in for their insights on expanding donor pools and improving patient outcomes!

Dr. Joshua Cooper, Director of Cardiac Electrophysiology at Temple University and a renowned educator, shares his vast knowledge on atrial flutter. He distinguishes its organized circuit from the chaos of atrial fibrillation and explores their shared pathophysiology. Key discussions include challenges in managing rate control due to AV node conduction, the efficacy of catheter ablation, and the importance of diagnosing flutter early. Cooper emphasizes the need for careful anticoagulation management post-procedure and highlights the educational appeal of flutter for aspiring electrophysiologists.

Dr. Kelly Schlendorf, the Director of Heart Failure and Transplant at Vanderbilt, dives deep into heart transplant evaluations and management. She clarifies the complexities of pre-transplant strategies, exploring bridge techniques like temporary MCS and durable LVAD. The conversation touches on the current heart allocation system, donor-recipient matching, and the role of sensitization in compatibility. Efforts to expand the donor pool, including the use of HCV-positive and HIV-positive organs, highlight the evolving landscape in heart transplantation.

Dr. Edmond Cronin, an electrophysiologist and associate professor, brings his expertise from the 2023 AF guideline writing committee. He discusses the various classifications of atrial fibrillation (AF) and highlights key symptoms beyond palpitations. The conversation delves into the importance of early rhythm control, emphasizing the benefits from recent trials. Dr. Cronin also addresses lifestyle interventions, antiarrhythmic safety, and unresolved questions in AF management, offering listeners a comprehensive view of chronic AF care.

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.