Clinical Cardiology Alert – April 1, 2009
April 1, 2009
View Issues
-
Clopidogrel Plus Proton-Pump Inhibitors
Since the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding is increased when clopidogrel is added to aspirin therapy in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS), many prescribe proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce this risk. However, mechanistic studies suggest that PPIs may reduce the effectiveness of clopidogrel. -
Management of Asymptomatic Severe Mitral Regurgitation
The optimal timing of surgery for asymptomatic severe mitral valve regurgitation (MR) is unclear. Thus, Kang et al from South Korea studied the outcomes of patients treated with early surgery to those treated more conservatively in a prospective observational study. -
PCI vs. CABG for Severe CAD: The SYNTAX Study
Revascularization, in conjunction with optimal medical therapy, remains a critical component in therapy for patients with obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). -
Dronedarone: New and Improved Amiodarone?
Dronedarone is a new antiarrhythmic drug with structural similarities to amiodarone. -
Microvolt T-wave Alternans: Useful in Predicting ICD Need?
The clinical utility of microvolt T-wave alternans (MWTA) testing to detect subtle beat-to-beat oscillations in the electrocardiogram's T-wave amplitude as a non-invasive method for predicting sudden cardiac death remains undetermined. -
Physician Experience vs. Hospital Volume in Primary PCI
Efforts to decrease door-to-balloon time for primary percutaneous intervention (PCI) in an acute ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), may include preferential triage to hospitals expert in primary PCI, partly because of evidence suggesting better outcomes. -
Clinical Briefs in Primary Care Supplement
-
Pharmacology Watch
Individualization of therapy with pharmacogenetics; the rate vs rhythm debate; the FDA's Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy; FDA actions.