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Added fructose in foods is worse than other sugars in driving
diabetes
Eating foods with added fructose-containing sugars
results in higher risk of suffering from diabetes and cardiovascular
disease according to a study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings.
3D printed model of heart helps surgeon plan life-saving heart
surgery
A cardiac surgeon at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles
has used a 3D printed heart as a model to plan a life-saving
procedure for a young patient born with a rare heart defect. 2 Feb
2015
St George's Hospital starts trial of spiral blood flow technology
for blood vessel graft
Dundee-based Vascular Flow Technologies has announced the
start of a randomised controlled clinical trial at St George's
Hospital, London of its proprietary spiral laminar flow (SLF) blood
vessel graft. 30 Jan 2015
Moderate alcohol intake linked
to reduced risk of heart failure
Drinking moderate amounts of
alcohol — a small glass of wine or half a pint of beer a day — is
associated with a 20% lower risk of men developing heart failure and
a 16% reduced risk for women. 20 Jan 2015
FEops closes €1.3m investment
to commercialise aortic valve preoperative planning system
Ghent-based FEops has secured €1.3 million series A financing round,
led by Capricorn Venture Partners and PMV. 19 Jan 2015
UK schools to get defibrillators to
save children suffering cardiac arrest
The UK Department for
Education (DfE) has awarded a contract for an initial provision of
500 automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to Philips through a
public procurement framework with NHS Supply Chain. 8 Dec 2014
Spiral blood flow improves success rate for vascular bypass surgery
Dundee company Vascular Flow Technologies has presented data that
shows a 30% increase in one-year success for patients who received
the company's Spiral Flow graft for infrainguinal vascular bypass
surgery. 24 Nov 2014
LoneStar receives CE mark for
hydrogel implant for heart-failure treatment
California-based LoneStar Heart, Inc. has announced that it has
received the CE Mark for its Algisyl-LVR hydrogel implant, the
company’s lead product for the treatment of advanced heart failure.
14 Oct 2014
Genetic test identifies people
at higher risk of atrial fibrillation and stroke
People who are genetically predisposed to develop atrial
fibrillation, which increases risk of stroke, can be identified with
a blood test according to research at Lund University in Sweden. 13
October 2014
Ultrathin coronary
stent with biodegradable coating shows promise
A new
generation of coronary artery stent that combines a biodegradable
component with an ultrathin metal scaffold showed promising results
compared with the current gold standard stent in a large study.
New model predicts best
distribution of AEDs to treat heart failure in public places
A new method to predict the optimal number and location of
automated external defibrillators (AEDs), to treat members of the
public suffering heart attacks, has been developed in Paris. 8 Sept
2014
Boston Scientific takes over
Bayer's vascular disease business for €300m
Boston Scientific Corporation and Bayer Healthcare have announced
the closure of the previously announced agreement for Boston
Scientific to purchase the Interventional business of Bayer
Healthcare. 2 Sept 2014
Opinion: In
cardiology, Big Data covers the ‘whole’ patient
Jeroen Tas, CEO Healthcare Informatics Solutions and Services,
Philips Healthcare
This week’s ESC Congress in Barcelona has a lot of people
buzzing about the latest innovation and research in the field of
cardiology. From my vantage point, I’m most excited to see how Big
Data is being put to work to change the face of cardiac care. 29 Aug
2014
Remote monitoring of heart
failure patients via implants halves mortality
BIOTRONIK has
announced that a clinical trial of its implant-based remote
monitoring system has lead to significant clinical benefits for
heart failure patients. 29 Aug 2014
Gecko Biomedical's Maria
Pereira named as MIT Technology Review Innovator
Gecko
Biomedical has announced that its Head of Adhesive Technologies has
been named as one of MIT Technology Review's “35 Innovators Under
35” for 2014 for the development of a wound healing glue for heart
surgery. 19 Aug 2014
New technique tests heart drugs on live
beating heart tissue samples
A researcher at Coventry University has developed a new way to
test the effect of drugs on the heart by using samples of heart tissue
stimulated to beat by electrical impulses. 21 Jul 2014
Edwards Lifesciences reports
good outcomes for Sapien 3 transcatheter aortic heart valve
Edwards Lifesciences has released clinical trials data on its most
advanced transcatheter aortic heart valve, the Sapien 3. Results
from the trial concluded that outcomes at 30 days were excellent.
British Cardiovascular Society
launches app to calculate heart age
The British
Cardiovascular Society (BCS) has launched an app to calculate risk
of heart attack or stroke and estimate heart age compared to the
average equivalent person.
Nottingham University develops
hydrogel for growing heart tissue from stem cells
A
multidisciplinary team at Nottingham University has developed a new
hydrogel that could simplify the production of stem cells and their
differentiation into specific tissues for use in regenerative
medicine. 15 April 2014
Boston Scientific's REBEL
coronary stent system receives CE mark
The REBEL Platinum
Chromium Coronary Stent System is the company's latest generation
bare metal stent for the treatment of coronary artery disease (CAD).
13 Mar 2014
EuroHeart II project shows
€196bn annual cost of cardiovascular disease in Europe
The
EU-funded EuroHeart II Project was completed at the end of
February after three years of research into current cardiovascular
disease trends and analysis of EU-wide CVD prevention policies. 4
March 2014
High blood pressure is an epidemic as
devastating as HIV
The response of most governments and
international aid agencies to high blood pressure, or hypertension,
is little better than the reaction to HIV/AIDS 20 years ago — too
little too late — according to an editorial in the International Journal of
Epidemiology. 4 March 2014
High blood pressure is an epidemic as
devastating as HIV
New research shows that a 10mm Hg
difference in blood pressure between arms indicates a significant
increased risk for future cardiovascular events. 4 March 2014
Nottingham University
Hospitals redesign pathway for heart valve disease patients
Nottingham University Hospitals (NUH) NHS Trust, has selected a
specialist Valve Clinic system from McKesson to redesign the
treatment pathway for patients with cardiac valve disease. 28 Feb
2014
Cardio3 BioSciences receives
€4.0m investment for commercialisation of C-Cathez
Cardiac
technology company Cardio3 BioSciences SA has received €4.0 million
of funding from the Walloon Region of Belgium to commercialise its
C-Cathez intra myocardial injection catheter in the US. 18 Feb 2014
Beating heart muscle created
from embryonic stem cells
An international team led by the
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in the US has generated
cardiac muscle tissue from human embryonic stem cells with
remarkable similarities to native heart muscle, including the
ability to beat. 5 Feb 2014
Sheffield patient receives
pioneering kidney treatment for high blood pressure
A patient
at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has become one
of the first in the world to have pioneering renal denervation
therapy to reduce high blood pressure. in a kidney patient whose
blood pressure could not be controlled with conventional medication.
4 Feb 2014
First UK patient receives
Nanostim pacemaker implanted in heart through femoral vein
St
Bartholomew’s Hospital in London has implanted the first patient in
the UK with the St Jude Medical Nanostim leadless pacemaker. 28 Jan
2014
Trinity Biotech exhibits
cardiac diagnostics point-of-care system at MEDICA
Trinity
Biotech is displaying its new 15-minute-analysis Meritas Troponin I
(TnI) point-of-care test in Dusseldorf this week. 20 Nov 2013
Aerotel showcases smallest
hand-held ECG monitors at MEDICA
Aerotel Medical Systems is
presenting two new models of what it claims are the world’s smallest
and most accurate hand-held ECG monitors at Medica 2013. 20 Nov 2013
Caution urged on taking daily
doses of aspirin for heart benefits
Researchers at Warwick
Medical School have published the most comprehensive review of the
benefits and risks of a daily dose of prophylactic aspirin. They
warn that further research is needed. 14 Nov 2013
Foetal heart monitor uses
magnetism to identify abnormal heart rhythms
A device that
records the natural magnetic activity of the heart of foetuses can
help identify abnormal heart rhythms in unborn babies. 14 Nov 2013
Why does lack of sleep
increase risk of diabetes, heart disease and asthma?
University of Helsinki researchers have discovered new biological
links between sleep loss and the immune system. The results help
explain why sleep deprivation increases the risk of inflammatory
diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and asthma.
11 Nov 2013
Free-floating 3D holograms of
heart used to guide heart surgery
Royal Philips and RealView
Imaging Ltd have completed a pilot study that has demonstrated the
feasibility of using a live 3D hologram with interactive technology
to guide minimally-invasive heart surgery. 31 Oct 2013
3D-printed tubular pump provides alternative to heart transplant
A custom-designed tubular pump for implanting into the aortic
artery to support a failing heart is being developed by researchers
at Nottingham Trent University and Nottingham University Hospitals
NHS Trust. 11 Sept 2013
Philips image guidance system
reduces radiation in cardiac catheterisation
A clinical study
using Philips’ AlluraClarity system with ClarityIQ technology has
achieved a 50% reduction in X-ray dose while maintaining image
quality for image-guided cardiac interventions. 29 May 2013
Paper thin transistor measures
heart health
A postage-stamp-sized heart monitor developed at
Stanford University is thin enough to be worn under a plaster on the
wrist and is sensitive enough to help diagnose cardiovascular
problems. 28 May 2013
UK doctors lagging behind
Europe in use of online cardiology training tool
Young UK
doctors are lagging in their uptake of eduCAD, an online tool for
learning the appropriate use of multi modal imaging technology in
cardiology, according to co-developer GE Healthcare. 15 May 2013
Philips announces completion
of patient enrolment in therapeutic hypothermia study
Patient
enrollment has been completed for the CHILL-MI clinical study
designed to further evaluate the Philips' InnerCool RTx endovascular
cooling system in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction
(STEMI). 10 May 2013
Subclinical overactive thyroid
associated with increased mortality
Having high thyroid
activity, and even “high-normal” levels, is a significant risk
factor for cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. 1 May 2013
Plessey Semiconductors
expands distribution network in Asia
Plessey and Supreme
Components Inc (SCI) have signed a distribution agreement for the
Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam markets. 20 Mar 2013
Atlas of the average human
heart created from 3D CT images
Researchers at Pompeu Fabra
University in Spain have created a high resolution atlas of the
human heart by using statistical analysis of 3D images taken
from 138 people. 6 Mar 2013
Cholesterol levels regulated by
gut bacteria
The metabolism of cholesterol in the human body
is regulated by bacteria in the small intestine, according to
research at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg,
Sweden. 24 Feb 2013
Disruption of body clock linked
to diabietes, obesity and heart disease
For the first time a
study has shown that insulin production follows the body’s circadian
rhythm and disruption of this can increase the risk of obesity,
diabetes and heart disease. 24 Feb 2013
Philips introduces advanced
imaging integration for EP navigator
This has a novel
approach to 3D rotational angiography that provides real-time
anatomical details of cardiac LA-PV structures with significantly
enhanced workflow. 30 Jan 2013
First patient treated in trial of
Boston Scientific's Blazer temperature ablation catheter
The
first patient has been treated in the ZERO AF clinical trial to
evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the catheter in patients
with symptomatic, drug refractory paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. 23
Jan 2013
Philips wins contract to supply
defibrillators to KLM and Air France
Philips will equip all
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Air France passenger flights with its
HeartStart automated external defibrillators (AEDs). 30 Nov 2012
Boston Scientific
defibrillators receive CE Mark for extended longevity
Boston
Scientific has received CE Mark for its Incepta, Energen, Punctua,
Cognis and Teligen ICDs and CRT-Ds. 21 Nov 2012
phenox receives CE Mark approval
for brain embolisation device
The phenox p64 flow modulation
device is an intraluminal flow diverter intended to treat complex
intracranial aneurysms and dissections. 6 Nov 2012
Blood pressure app for finding
best treatments for hypertension
bpSalsa is an iPhone app
that compares the performance of different blood pressure treatments
to help improve the efficiency and cost of treating hypertension. 24
Oct 2012
Biotronik launches
implantable BioMonitor for monitoring arrhythmias
BioMonitor
is an implantable cardiac device designed for the highly accurate
and reliable monitoring and management of patients with atrial
fibrillation (AF) or unexplained syncope. 18 Oct 2012
Diabetics with foot ulcers
have higher risk of heart attack, stroke and death
The
researchers say the findings of this large scale study highlight the
potential need for improved detection and management of those with
diabetes and foot ulcers. 16 October 2012
Sitting for long periods
increases risk of diabetes, heart disease and death
A review
of research has discovered that sitting for long periods increases
your risk of diabetes, heart disease and death even if you meet
typical physical activity guidelines. 16 Oct 2012
Philips donates millionth
AED in US
Philips will donate its one-millionth HeartStart
AED to help communities combat the potentially fatal effects of
sudden cardiac arrest. 19 Sept 2012
Cardiac cells generated from
stem cells using carbon nanotubes
The electrical stimulation
of carbon nanotubes can direct stem cells to form cardiac cells. The
technique could give the ability to repair damaged heart muscle,
which has little natural repair capacity. 19 Sept 2012
Boston Scientific expands
cardiology portfolio with acquisition of BridgePoint Medical
BridgePoint Medical is a privately held company that has developed a
catheter-based system to treat coronary chronic total occlusions
(CTOs). 20 Sept 2012
ESC launches ICD for Life
initiative
The European Society of Cardiology is
raising awareness of the the importance of ICDs and sudden cardiac
death in Central and Eastern Europe through ICD for Life. 10 Sept
2012
Novel mRNA blood test can
show which heart failure patients will benefit from ICD
A
novel blood test for changes in messenger RNA that predict sudden
death risk in heart failure patients is set to help physicians
decide which patients would benefit from an implantable cardioverter
defibrillator (ICDs). 28 Aug 2012
First international consensus on cardiac resynchronization
therapy in heart failure
The 2012
Expert Consensus Statement on Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) in Heart
Failure: Implant and Follow-up Recommendations and Management, will
be published in the US and European heart rhythm journals EP Europace and
HeartRhythm. 28 Aug 2012
University of Leicester receives
£7m donation for new biomarker facility
The donation from the
John and Lucille van Geest Foundation will help pave the way for a
new era of ‘personalised medicine’ enabling the University to create
a facility that is unique in the UK and that can compete globally.
21 Aug 2012
Heart cells rejuvenated by
enhancing telomerase in cardiac stem cells
Damaged and aged
heart tissue of older heart failure patients can be rejuvenated by
modified stem cells. 26 July 2012
Sorin and Orange launch remote
monitoring solution for ICDs in Europe
Smartview is a remote
monitoring system for patients with implanted cardiac rhythm
management (CRM) devices and is available in several countries in
Europe. 27 June 2012
Endosense force-sensing ablation
catheter gains CE mark
The TactiCath Quartz force-sensing
ablation catheter has been CE mark approved and the first cases
using the new device have been performed in Europe. 27 June 2012
TLT secures new research
collaboration with leading UK universities
Tarilian Laser
Technologies has formed a new clinical research consortium with The
William Harvey Research Institute (WHRI) at Queen Mary, University
of London, which will also involve Imperial College, Oxford
University and Barts Health NHS Trust. 22 June 2012
Plessey launches ultra-low cost
version of EPIC sensor
Plessey Semiconductors has released
an ultra-low cost version of its award-winning EPIC sensor that
provides remote electric field sensing for high volume consumer
markets. 15 June 2012
Boston Scientific completes
acquisition of Cameron Health
The acquisition of San
Clemente-based Cameron Health, Inc adds the company's subcutaneous
implantable cardioverter defibrillator, the S-ICD System, to Boston
Scientific's portfolio. 11 May 2012
Patients' skin cells turned into
heart muscle cells to repair damaged hearts
For the first time skin cells from heart failure patients have
been reprogrammed into healthy, new heart muscle cells that are capable
of integrating with existing heart tissue. 25 May 2012
RESPeRATE electronic device for lowering blood pressure available on
prescription
The patient listens to a melody through headphones,
and synchronises breathing to guiding tones that help the patient
move into a therapeutic zone of less than 10 breaths per minute. 30
Apr 2012
Europe’s biggest blood
pressure conference in London April 26-29
The 22nd Scientific
Meeting of the European Society of Hypertension (ESH) will take
place at ICC Excel London. 25 Apr 2012
New blood test predicts heart
attack risk
A new blood test to detect misshapen blood vessel
cells may be useful in helping doctors predict who is at risk of an
imminent heart attack. 26 Mar 2012
New gel could repair damaged
heart after heart attack
An injectable gel containing
freeze-dried powdered heart cells could be an effective and safe
treatment to repair heart tissue damage caused by heart attacks. 18
Mar 2012
Philips introduces
HeartStart XL+ defibrillator/ monitor
Philips has launched
worldwide the HeartStart XL+, a crash cart defibrillator/ monitor
for use in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. 13 Mar 2012
Boston Scientific to acquire
Cameron Health for initial US$300m
California-based Cameron
Healthhas developed a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter
defibrillator — the S-ICD System. 8 Mar 2012
Feature: TLT makes early research breakthrough in foetal heart monitoring
Tarilian Laser Technologies, which has developed a unique optical sensor
platform for blood pressure measurement, has now made a further
innovation with the development of a ground-breaking early research
prototype for a foetal heart monitoring sensor. 23 Feb 2012
Phosphate additives in food
cause artery damage and premature
aging
There is increasing evidence that an elevated level of phosphate in
the blood not only promotes calcification of blood vessels and
bodily organs but also upsets a complex hormonal system involved in
regulation of phosphate in the body. 15 Feb 2012
Boston Scientific
launches crossing device to treat blockages in peripheral arteries
Boston Scientific has launched in the USA the TruePath CTO Device,
designed to facilitate the crossing of chronic total occlusions
within the peripheral vasculature. 9 Feb 2012
Hypothermia treatment for cardiac
arrest underused in US hospitals
Therapeutic hypothermia has
been proven to reduce mortality and improve neurologic outcomes
after a heart attack, yet it was rarely used in a sample of more
than 26,000 patients, according to a new study. 6 Jan 2012
FFR-guided coronary angioplasty
improves patient health while reducing costs
Fractional flow
reserve-guided intervention to determine the severity of blood flow
blockages in patients’ coronary arteries can improve patient
outcomes while saving costs. 5 January 2012
Aortic pressure better for
diagnosing congestive heart failure and coronary heart disease
Prof. Uwe Nixdorff from the European Prevention Centre, Düsseldorf
is advising cardiologists to combine intima media thickness (IMT)
measurement with Aloka’s ultrasound scanner pulse wave intensity
function to check for unseen coronary heart disease. 5 January 2012
Biotronik introduces world's
first MRI-compatible implantable defibrillators
Biotronik
has announced the first implantations of its new Lumax 740
implantable cardiac defibrillators — the world’s first and only ICDs
eligible for use with MRI scanners. 5 Jan 2012
TLT announces breakthrough in detection of white coat hypertension
Tarilian
Laser Technologies has confirmed the ability of its Sapphire sensor
technology to detect white coat hypertension during measurement of
blood pressure in a clinical setting. 5 Jan 2012
Study finds blood pressure
measurement errors in 93% of patients
A study at the
University of New Mexico on the way clinicians measure blood
pressure in patients has found an average of four mistakes in
technique per patient, compared to AHA guidelines, and errors in 93%
of patients. 21 Dec 2011
TLT targets UK for hi-tech
manufacturing base for revolutionary optical blood pressure sensor
Tarilian Laser Technologies, developer of a revolutionary
optoelectronic sensor for measuring blood pressure, has announced
that it will build manufacturing capabilities for sensor-based
devices in-house at its Welwyn Garden City headquarters. 21 Dec 2011
Feature: Inner cooling reduces heart and brain damage after MI, cardiac arrest
and stroke
The Philips Inner Cool RTx system provides a rapid method of
cooling the body from the inside. The RTx system cools or warms patients with a unique integrated temperature sensor
catheter that circulates temperature-controlled fluid within the
catheter and adjusts the temperature of the blood near the heart. 17
Dec 2011
Feature: Tarilian Laser Technologies achieves greatest
technological advance in blood pressure measurement for 130 years
Tarilian Laser Technologies (TLT) has
invented a completely novel method of measuring blood pressure based
on an optoelectronic sensor. The sensor outperforms the current
“gold standard” for measuring blood pressure — the mercury
sphygmomanometer — and effectively makes the older technology
obsolete. The sensor can measure blood pressure on any part of the
body, including the eye without pressure on the eye or energy
entering the body. 7 Dec 2011.
Read more..
Panasonic’s
CardioHealth Station provides early diagnosis in primary care
The ultrasound device is designed to assist medical
professionals in making a quick and valuable assessment of
cardiovascular health. 6 Dec 2011
Key protein for
self-healing damaged heart muscle discovered
German scientists have identified a protein that stimulates
the regression of individual heart muscle cells into their precursor
cells which could then be used to regenerate damaged heart muscle after
a heart attack. 20 Nov 2011
AQAI launches
TestChest lung-heart function simulator
The AQAI Simulation
Center based in Mainz, Germany, has launched TestChest, a device
that simulates the functioning of the extremely complex lung and
heart-lung functions in humans. 7 Nov 2011
New
non-invasive technique uses CT for testing heart function
The
technique could, in a single test, identify which abnormally
narrowed blood vessels are the most likely to lead to further
cardiovascular complications. 25 Oct 2011
Laughter is good for
the heart
Having a good laugh has a positive effect on blood
flow, while stress constricts blood vessels and restricts blood
flow. Using ultrasound to measure blood vessel diameter, a study has
shown a 30-50% difference in blood vessel diameter between watching
a funny movie and a stressful one. 2 Oct 2011
Brain stents increase risk of stroke
and death
Stents inserted in arteries in the brain to reduce
the high risk of repeat strokes have been found instead to
significantly increase strokes and deaths. 21 Sept 2011
Draft guidance
from NICE paves way for next-generation cardiac CT scanners
The provisional recommendations support the use of the latest
generation of scanners from Siemens Healthcare, Toshiba Medical
Systems, Philips Healthcare, and GE Healthcare. 15 Sept 2011
Siemens expands angiography
systems with catheter navigation technology
The MediGuide
navigation technology from St Jude Medical locates the catheter
during cardiac interventions and projects its precise position in
realtime. 31 August 2011
First changes in 100 years
to method for checking high blood pressure
The way blood
pressure is diagnosed and treated is set to be revolutionised
following new guidelines issued by NICE. 24 August 2011
Simple blood oxygen test
identifies newborns with dangerous heart defects
A simple
test to measure blood oxygen in newborns has been shown to identify
babies with life-threatening congenital heart defects, a major cause
of infant mortality in the developed world. 13 August 2011
Compound in bear bile could prevent
arrhythmia after heart attack
A synthesised compound which is
also found in bear bile could help prevent disturbances in the
heart’s normal rhythm. 3 August 2011
Articificial nanoparticles shown to
affect the heart
A team of German scientists has for the
first time shown, in an isolated rodent heart, that selected
artificial nanoparticles have a direct effect on heart rate and
heart rhythm. 3 August 2011
New low-energy cardiac
defibrillation method developed
An international team of
scientists has developed a new low-energy method for terminating
life-threatening cardiac fibrillation of the heart. 15 July 2011
Ultrasound scanner measures
blood pressure from many points in body
Researchers at
Eindhoven University of Technology and Esaote have developed a new
technique to measure blood pressure using ultrasound. Using an
ultrasound scanner they will soon be able to measure the blood
pressure pulse at many points in the body. 4 July 2011
Isansys Lifecare launches
LifeTouch body-worn wireless cardiac monitor
UK company
Isansys Lifecare Limited has launched the LifeTouch HRV011, a
cardiac monitor that adheres to the patient’s body and analyses the
ECG signal of the patient's heartbeat in unprecedented detail. 19
May 2011
Antibody injection could limit
inflammation damage from heart attacks and strokes
A simple
injection of an antibody could limit the devastating inflammatory
response following restoration of blood supply after heart attacks
and strokes. 3 May 2011
Europe could save 135,000
lives a year through better cardiovascular care
A
pan-European study of cardio-vascular diseases has found that up to
135,000 deaths could be prevented in Europe each year through better
control of risk factors. 20 April 2011
SurgiVision's MRI-compatible
cannula wins FDA clearance
SurgiVision, Inc has receieved FDA
aproval for its SmartFlow neuro ventricular cannula, an
MRI-compatible injection and aspiration cannula for use in the
brain. 20 April 2011
Omron Healthcare wins iF
design awards for blood pressure monitors
Omron Healthcare
Co., has won both the iF Product Design Award and Universal Design
Award for its blood pressure monitors M6 and M6 Comfort. 19 April
2011
 Simple
method turns blood cells into virus-free beating heart cells
A simplified, cheaper, all-purpose method that can safely turn blood
cells into heart cells has been developed at Johns Hopkins
University in the US. The method is virus-free and produces heart
cells that beat with nearly 100% efficiency. 12 April 2011
New ultrasound technique for
imaging defects in babies' hearts
The Medical Imaging
Laboratory in Trondheim, Norway, has developed a new ultrasound
technique that gives an enhanced ability to discover heart defects
in newborns. 28 March 2011
Universities of Greenwich and
Lille collaborate to develop coated coronary stent
The
University of Greenwich is collaborating with two universities in
Lille to develop a coronary stent with a coating that slowly
releases drugs into the blood. 28 March 2011
Thermal sensor deployed by angiogram
catheter detects early atherosclerosis
A micro heater and
thermal sensor small enough to deploy by an angiogram catheter can
detect the earliest stages of atherosclerosis in blood vessels. 13
March 2011
LGC’s genotyping technology
used to study genetic basis for anticoagulation therapy
Researchers from six European countries will ake part in in the
two-year trial, which aims to demonstrate that a patient’s genotype
plays an important role in the effective prescribing of
anticoagulation (anti-blood-clotting) drugs such as Warfarin. 28 Feb
2011
 Wrist-worn
device to revolutionise blood pressure measurement
A new
method of measuring blood pressure by recording the pulse wave in
the wrist gives a more accurate reading than the traditional arm
cuff and has the potential to enable doctors to treat their patients
more effectively. 22 Feb 2011
Medtronic starts shipping
MRI-safe pacemaker in US
Medtronic, Inc. has announced the
immediate availability in the US of its Revo MRI SureScan MRI-safe
pacemaker, following FDA approval. 17 Feb 2011
St Jude Medical launches
ViewMate Z intracardiac echocardiography
system
The ViewMate Z system is designed for real-time image
guidance and visualization of the cardiac anatomy. 16 Feb 2011
First atrial fibrillation ablation
cases for contact force sensing catheter
Biosense Webster,
Inc., has announced the successful completion of the first clinical
cases in the EU with the new ThermoCool SmartTouch contact force
sensing catheter, following recent CE Mark approval. 15 Feb 2011
Abbott receives CE Mark for world's
first drug eluting bioresorbable coronary stent
Abbott's BVS
device restores blood flow by opening a clogged vessel and providing
support to the vessel until the device dissolves within
approximately two years. 31 Jan 2011
Hotspur's GPSCath allows multiple
vascular procedures from single catheter
The GPSCath is a
two-in-one device that allows physicians to perform high-pressure
angioplasty and inject physician-specified fluids such as contrast
while maintaining guidewire position. 31 Jan 2011
Philips receives CE mark for PET/MRI system — first new modality
in 10 years
The combined system integrates the molecular
imaging capabilities of PET with the superior soft tissue contrast
of MR (magnetic resonance) to image diseased cells as they
proliferate in soft tissue. 24 Jan 2011
Biotronik launches eight new pacemaker models
The eight new models in its Estella and Effecta pacemaker series are built on Biotronik’s unified platform
technology which enables the integration of key performance
features across all lines. 10 Dec 2010
Cordis to distribute Ostial Pro
stent positioning system worldwide
Cordis Corporation has entered
into a distribution agreement with Ostial Solutions for the worldwide
distribution of the Ostial Pro Stent Positioning System. 3 Dec 2010
Solar powered blood pressure
device is reliable tool for developing countries
A new
solar-powered device to measure blood pressure can provide affordable
and reliable blood pressure testing in low income countries according to
a field study. 23 Nov 2010
Many cardiovascular deaths in
Europe could be prevented with better care
Results from a large
pan-European study indicate that many of the 4.3 million annual deaths
in Europe could be avoided if at-risk patients received better
preventative care. 23 Nov 2010
Second artificial heart patient
fitted with portable heart driver
A 45-year-old man has become
only the second patient in the US to be discharged from hospital fitted
with the Freedom portable driver to power his SynCardia temporary Total
Artificial Heart. 9 Nov 2010
Medtronic gains FDA approval for
stent delivery system for TAA repair
Medtronic has received
approval for its Talent Thoracic Stent Graft with Captivia Delivery
System, which features a tip capture mechanism for controlled deployment
and precise placement of the implantable medical device. 9 Nov 2010
UK’s first robotic multi-axis
C-arm for complex vascular surgery
The Royal Free Hospital in
North London has opened the UK’s first advanced interventional imaging
system, Artis zeego from Siemens Healthcare. 26 Oct 2010
Getting the blues makes the heart
stumble
Scientists at the University of Bonn have bred mice with
heart muscle sensitive to blue light. This enables control of heart
activity on demand, giving a new means to study arrhythmias. 11 Oct 2010
ESC updates guidelines for device
therapy in heart failure
The European Society of Cardiology (ESC)
has updated its Clinical Practice Guidelines covering device therapy in
heart failure. The update reflects the pace of research in this field
and the importance of recently published evidence. 3 Sept 2010
New clinical practice guidelines
for atrial fibrillation from ESC
The European Society of
Cardiology (ESC) has released of new Clinical Practice Guidelines
covering atrial fibrillation. These are the first guidelines to be
prepared solely by the ESC on this very important topic. 3 Sept 2010
Euroaspire studies health and
economic impact of heart disease prevention
The multinational
EUROASPIRE III health economics study aims to find out to what extent a
focus on prevention can reduce both the health and economic impact of
cardiovascular disease (CVD) — responsible for 4 million deaths in
Europe each year. 3 Sept 2010
Australia facing epidemic of heart
rhythm disorder
Australia has seen a 75% increase in hospital
admissions for atrial fibrillation, the most common heart disorder, over
the last 10 years. 3 Sept 2010
 Maths
and video game graphics help develop live MRI of beating heart
Magnetic resonance imaging taking just one fiftieth of a second will
enable the dynamics of organs and joints to be filmed 'live' for the
first time, including the beating heart, the bending knee, and movements
of the eye and jaw. 2 Sept 2010
Screening of young athletes for
heart disease needs improving
The screening process for young
footballers to detect those at risk of heart disease does not take into
account the type and intensity of the exercise performed. 2 Sept 2010
Enhanced cardiac ultrasound system
from Philips Healthcare
Royal Philips Electronics has launched
the enhanced iE33 xMATRIX cardiac ultrasound system featuring a new
ergonomic solution for more efficient adult echocardiograms, the X5-1
transducer. 1 Sept 2010
Everolimus-eluting stent shows
greater therapeutic benefit over gold standard
A trial of the
newer generation everolimus-eluting stent has provided preliminary
evidence that it gives greater therapeutic benefit than the previous
gold standard, the early generation sirolimus-eluting stent. 1 Sept 2010
Siemens introduces new systems for
the diagnosis and therapy of heart diseases
Siemens Healthcare
is presenting at the European Society of Cardiology Congress 2010 a
range of innovative solutions for cardiology that provide higher quality
of care and contribute at the same time to reducing costs in healthcare.
1 Sept 2010
TomTec introduces new version of
2D cardiac performance analysis software
2D Cardiac Performance
Analysis is a speckle tracking based analysis tool which can analyze 2D
data from various ultrasound machines. It allows a cardiologist to study
the behaviour of the heart muscle quicker and easier due to improved
handling. 18 August 2010
Aloka e-flow technology improves
accuracy of coronary heart diseases diagnosis
The Universidad
Complutense de Madrid is using Aloka’s e-tracking technology to advance
the early detection of cardiovascular events.
The system is used to
easily measure predominant parameters on arterial vessels. 2 August 2010
Covidien completes acquisition of
ev3
Covidien has announced the completion of the acquisition of
ev3 Inc. for approximately US$2.6 billion. The transaction accelerates
Covidien’s strategy of building a world-class vascular platform
addressing high-growth markets. 15 July 2010
Women receive greater benefit from
CRT-Ds than men
Cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillators
(CRT-Ds) reduce heart failure events more in women than men, according
to data from Boston Scientific Corporation's MADIT-CRT trial. 14 July
2010
Erectile dysfunction indicates
high risk of heart attack
A Malaysian study has found that seven
out of 10 men admitted to hospital for a heart attack had erectile
dysfunction (ED) in the six months prior to their admission. 14 July
2010
Chinese least likely to get
cardiovascular disease
Racial-ethnic groups living in a similar
environment and with access to universal healthcare differ strikingly in
their cardiovascular risk profiles. 14 July 2010
Boston Scientific enrols first
patient in multisensor CRT clinical trial
Boston Scientific
Corporation has enrolled the first patient in its MultiSENSE clinical
trial. The trial is designed to evaluate multiple physiologic sensors in
the Company's Cognis cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillators.
12 July 2010
Computerised blood pressure
diagnosis beats hypertension experts
Irish Company dabl’s
computerised system for diagnosing 24-hour blood pressure is more
accurate and consistent than a leading group of international
hypertension experts, according to an independent study. 30 June 2010
Philips launches intra-vascular
interventional configuration for stroke assessment
The VasoCT is
designed to visualize vessel structure beyond a clot and help physicians
identify and assess the size and extent of an ischemic stroke. 17 June
2010
CardioTrace monitors
cardiovascular health by measuring arterial blood flow
Advanced
Global Health has launched CardioTrace, a non-invasive device that
monitors the blood flow in finger arteries to identify fitness levels
and abnormalities. 12 June 2010
Estudio de casos de ALOKA. ‘See the unseen’
[Español]
‘Seeing the unseen’. El Prof Dr MA García Fernández habla en la
European Association of Echocardiography sobre el uso que hace de ALOKA. 1
Juni 2010. Deutsch.
Italiano.
Francais
Falls in elderly linked to high
blood pressure and blood flow in brain
Falls in elderly people
are higher in those with high blood pressure and an inability of the
brain blood supply to respond adequately to changing conditions. It
shows that basic treatment and exercise could reduce the high numbers of
falls and admissions to hospital. 24 May 2010
nContact Surgical advances closed
chest ablation techniques
nContact Surgical has enrolled the
first patient in its IDE trials to evaluate a fully closed chest
procedure combining the best of electrophysiologist catheter and
surgical techniques for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. 14 May
2010
Biosense Webster launches
Thermocool SF irrigated ablation catheter in the EU
Biosense
Webster, Inc. has completed the first clinical cases with its next
generation catheter in the EU, following recent CE Mark approval. 14 May
2010
Boston Scientific receives EU
approval for platinum chromium stent system
Boston Scientific
Corporation has received CE Mark approval for its Taxus Element
Paclitaxel-Eluting Coronary Stent System, the Company's third-generation
drug-eluting stent (DES) technology. 14 May 2010
 Leicester
University carries out world's first robotic cardiac catheter ablation
A pioneering world first robotically controlled cardiac ablation
operation is to be conducted at Glenfield Hospital using the new Remote
Catheter Manipulation System (RCMS) developed by Catheter Robotics. 4
May 2010
Bioheart launches trial of
genetically modified muscle stem cells for heart repair
US
company Bioheart has commenced work on its REGEN trial, a Phase I
clinical trial to test genetically modified muscle stem cells in hearts
of patients suffering from congestive heart failure (CHF). 2 April 2010
Medtronic pacemaker system for use
in MRI scanners available in Europe
Medtronic, Inc. has
announced the commercial availability of the Advisa DR MRI SureScan
pacemaker in selected European geographies. It gives patients access to
full body MRI scans, without positioning limitations. 26 March 2010
Philips and ACC showcase minimally
invasive cardiology interventions
Royal Philips Electronics in
partnership with the American College of Cardiology (ACC) have
highlighted the growing need for minimally-invasive interventions to
address a spectrum of cardiac conditions, such as structural and
degenerative heart issues. 26 March 2010
Mapping heart signals to help
atrial fibrillation sufferers
Scientists at the University of Leicester are creating maps of irregular
signals of the heart in an innovative project that has potential to
bring benefits for millions of people who suffer from irregular heart
rhythm. 9 Feb 2010
St Jude Medical gains EU approval
for high power ICD and CRT-D devices
St Jude Medical,has announced European CE Mark approval and first
implants of its Fortify and Fortify ST implantable cardioverter
defibrillators and Unify cardiac resynchronization therapy
defibrillator. 9 Feb 2010
Sorin releases new Paradym CRT
defibrillator
Sorin Group has announced FDA approval and first implant of its
next-generation of cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator
(CRT-D), Paradym CRT Model 8750. 9 February 2010
Quantum physics research leads to
breakthrough heart scanner
A highly sensitive cardiac scanner being developed at the University of
Leeds will dramatically improve the process of diagnosing heart
conditions. 8 Feb 2010
Medtronic to expand cardiovascular
products with acquisition of Invatec
Medtronic, Inc. will acquire Invatec, and two affiliated companies:
Fogazzi and German company Krauth Cardiovascular. The takeover will cost
Medtronic up to US$500m. 28 Jan 2010
Hybrid theatre enables advanced
procedures at Bristol Heart Institute
A hybrid operating theatre, the second of its kind in the UK, has been
opened at the Bristol Heart Institute (BHI). The hybrid theatre will
mean shorter waiting times, reduced hospital stays, fewer operations and
less distress for patients. 19 Jan 2010
ATS Medical gains CE approval for
ATS 3f Enable aortic valve
platform that combines the novel 3f tubular pericardial valve design
with its superior hemodynamic profiles and a self-expanding frame to
hold the valve in its optimal position. 17 Dec 2009
3-D modelling of heart enables robotic surgery on beating heart
A team at the Montpellier Laboratory of Informatics in France has
developed a computerized 3D model that allows surgeons to use robotics
to operate on a beating heart. 15 Dec 2009
Siemens echocardiography suite
captures full-volume heart image in one beat
This new release of the Acuson SC2000 system features unique
technologies and applications that improve diagnostic confidence and
workflow in echocardiography to deliver vastly more diagnostic
information than today’s conventional systems. 9 Dec 2009
Use of implantable cardiac devices
in Europe doubles, but uptake variable
The use of implantable devices for the treatment of heart failure
increased "enormously" in Europe between the years 2004 and 2008, but
there still remain large differences between countries. 9 Dec 2009
 CT
scans of mummies show atherosclerosis common in ancient Egyptians
A new study has found that atherosclerosis, hardening of the arteries,
was common in ancient Egyptians, challenging a belief that vascular
disease is a modern affliction caused by current-day risk factors such
as stress and sedentary lifestyles. 1 December 2009
Biotronik launches Evia pacemaker
in Europe
Berlin-based Biotronik SE & Co. KG, has launched in Europe its new,
unified platform pacemaker series, Evia, and several new products to
further strengthen its bradycardia portfolio. 13 November 2009
Doctors renew warning over use of
home fetal heart monitors
Doctors have issued a further warning to expectant parents not to use
over-the-counter fetal heart monitors (Doppler devices) at home because
they can lead to false reassurance and delays in seeking medical help. 6
Nov 2009
Boston Scientific launches Promus
Element Stent System in Europe
Boston Scientific has announced EU approval and the launch in Europe of
its Promus Element Everolimus-eluting coronary stent system. 3 Nov 2009
Medtronic launches improved
delivery system for minimally invasive treatment of thoracic aortic
aneurysms
Medtronic's Captivia Delivery System features tip capture for enhanced
control of the Valiant thoracic stent graft during deployment and a
hydrophilic coating applied to the graft cover to facilitate iliac
access and delivery through patients’ vasculature. 14 October 2009
Blood flow blockages in heart measured using wireless fractional flow
reserve technology
St Jude Medical, Inc. has announced the first use of the PressureWire Aeris technology, an interventional tool which measures
Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR) to evaluate the severity of blood flow
blockages in the arteries. 13 Oct 2009
Philips upgrades Allura Xper
cardio-vascular x-ray systems
Philips has launched a new upgrade program for its Allura Xper family of
cardio/vascular x-ray devices. The complimentary upgrade will be
provided globally to more than 2000 customers with Customer Service
Agreements. 8 Oct 2009
Omron unveils blood pressure
monitor modules for OEM applications
Two new blood pressure monitoring modules can be easily integrated into
new or existing medical device manufacturers' OEM systems, one aimed at
hospital grade devices and a lower-cost option for high accuracy home
and telemedicine environments. 2 October 2009
 Handheld cardiac monitors reduce
risk for cardiac surgery patients at Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh
Handheld devices that monitor blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen
levels, have been put in place in the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh (RIE)
to prevent complications, such as cardiac arrest and deep vein
thrombosis. 2 Oct 2009
Large differences in cardiovascular mortality and national prevention
policies across EU
Research from a three-year programme to analyse cardiovascular health
and prevention policies in 16 European countries shows heart disease
remains the leading cause of death in Europe but there are huge
differences in both national prevention policies and levels
of cardiovascular mortality between countries. 21 Sept 2009
Abbott to acquire cardiac valve
device company Evalve
The acquisition provides Abbott with a presence in the growing area of
non-surgical treatment for structural heart disease for a cost of up to
$410 million. 21 Sept 2009
Siemens and SurgiVision to develop
MRI-guided cardiac electrophysiology system
The companies will partner to develop and commercialize a real-time
MRI-guided cardiac electrophysiology (EP) system. They will also
collaborate with the University of Utah to bring it to the clinic stage.
10 Sept 2009
Education and defibrillators needed
to reduce sudden death during sport
More widespread availability of defibrillators and education of the
general public could boost survival rates fourfold amongst athletes
suffering cardiac arrest. 10 Sept 2009
Reperfusion therapy can cut risk of
dying from heart attack by half
Effective reperfusion therapy provides a timely and sustainable
reopening of the blockage. The wider use of reperfusion therapy in
patients with heart attack (AMI) can save millions of lives. 10 Sept
2009
St Jude Medical announces European
launch of remote cardiac care network
The Merlin.net Patient Care Network (PCN) is a secure, Internet-based
remote care system for patients with implanted medical devices. It
gathers and stores data from the implant procedure, in-clinic follow-up
visits and from remote transmissions sent from a patient’s home. 5 Sept
2009
GE Healthcare and TomTec Imaging
Systems co-operate in cardiology IT
GE Healthcare and TomTec Imaging Systems GmbH, have entered into a
formal strategic co-operation contract to improve their echocardiography
systems. 5 September 2009
Siemens exhibits new cardiac
imaging application for aortic valve prosthesis at ESC 2009
With the syngo DynaCT Cardiac, the cardiologist can position the valve
prosthesis more accurately and quickly than before. 28 August 2009
Philips launches new cardiograph
with rapid diagnosis
The PageWriter TC50 cardiograph offers an intuitive operation and
advanced clinical decision support. 28 August 2009
t+ blood pressure lite enables monitoring
of patients' blood pressure at home
Oxford University spin-out t+ Medical has launched t+ blood pressure
lite, which enables healthcare professionals to effectively monitor
their patients’ blood pressure without patients having to leave their
home. 28 August 2009
Basingstoke first hospital in UK to
intall Zoll AutoPulse in cath lab
Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital in Hampshire, UK is the first
hospital in the UK to install the AutoPulse non-invasive cardiac support
pump in a cardiac catheterization laboratory. 26 August 2009
Breakthrough drug-eluting stent to
treat peripheral artery disease available in Europe
Surgeons in the UK have completed patient implants of the first CE Mark
approved drug-eluting stent designed specifically to treat severe
blockages in the largest artery in the leg. 20 August 2009
Deutsch
Philips enhances Xcelera cardiology
image management system
Philips has introduced new enhancements to its Xcelera multimodality
cardiology image management, analysis and reporting solution featuring
telecardiology capabilities to increase access to images and
information. 20 August 2009
 Pulse-less
artificial heart gets new lease of life with US$2.8m grant
The Texas Heart Institute has been awarded the grant by the US National
Institutes of Health (NIH) for a second year of research to develop a
pulse-less total artificial heart based on two MicroMed ventricular
assist devices. 20 August 2009
Magnetic irrigated catheter
procedures reach 2500
Stereotaxis, Inc. (NASDAQ: STXS) has announced that clinicians have
performed more than 2,500 procedures with the magnetic irrigated
catheter since its commercial release. 20 August 2009
Injection of growth factor reverses
heart-attack damage
Researchers at Children's Hospital Boston have shown that injection of a
growth factor, called neuregulin1 (NRG1), can spur heart-muscle growth
and recovery of cardiac function when injected systemically into animals
after a heart attack. 31 July 2009
 World's
first virtual heart brings breakthrough in education for cardiothoracic
anaesthetists
HeartWorks, a uniquely realistic computer-generated model of the heart
and echocardiography simulator, is the result of a 4-year project to
improve teaching of peri-operative transoesophageal echocardiography. 17
July 2009
First human receives cardiac stem
cells to repair damage caused by heart attacks
Doctors have completed the first procedure in which a patient's own
heart tissue was used to grow specialized heart stem cells that were
then injected back into the patient's heart in an effort to repair and
re-grow healthy muscle in a heart that had been injured by a heart
attack. 15 July 2009
New communication technologies help
cardiac patients improve their prognosis
The use of phone and internet between patients and healthcare providers is
an effective way to reduce risk factors for coronary heart disease and the
risk of further events after a heart attack, according to new research. 29
June 2009
Atherosclerosis vaccine development
receives EU support
Vienna-based AFFiRiS AG's atherosclerosis vaccine development program based
on proprietary AFFITOME technology is receiving support from the EU's
EUROTRANS-BIO call. 18 June 2009
Enzyme replacement therapy gives
significant benefits for women with Fabry disease
Shire Human Genetic Therapies (HGT), has announced that results from an
observational study demonstrate that enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) with
REPLAGAL 0.2mg/kg is effective in treating some of the signs and symptoms of
Fabry disease in women. 18 June 2009
Philips launches worlds smallest TEE
transducer for cardiac imaging of newborns
Philips' microTEE transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) transducer
provides pediatric cardiologists with a diagnostic tool for imaging the
hearts of newborn patients. 8 June 2009
Medtronic device registry shows how
implantable heart devices work in clinical practice
The first results from the Medtronic Inc., OMNI Study reveal that one out of
six patients with an ICD or CRT-Ds to prevent sudden cardiac arrest,
received potentially life-saving medical therapy. 28 May 2009
St Jude Medical gains EU approval for
cardiac mapping system
St Jude Medical, Inc. has gained European CE Mark approval and first use of
its EnSite Velocity cardiac mapping system. This new system has been
designed to help physicians more efficiently diagnose and deliver therapy to
treat abnormal heart rhythms. 28 May 2009
Cardiola receives EU approval for home cardiac counterpulsation
system
Cardiola AG has received CE Mark recertification to market its m.pulse
system for at-home use to treat chronic heart failure (CHF), the most
frequent cause of hospitalization in persons over 65. 27 May 2009
St Jude Medical gains EU approval for
remote care system for implantable cardiac devices
St Jude Medical's Merlin.net Patient Care Network (PCN) is a secure,
Internet-based remote care system that gathers and stores data from the
implant procedure, a clinic follow-up visit or from remote follow-up
transmissions of patients with implanted cardiac devices. 7 May
Medtronic initiates global abdominal
aortic aneurysm study
Medtronic, Inc. has announced the start of ENGAGE, the largest ever study of
its kind, which will evaluate the performance of the Endurant stent graft,
an implantable medical device designed to provide an advanced
minimally-invasive alternative to open surgical repair of abdominal aortic
aneurysms. 24 April 2009
Cardima surgical ablation probe receives
EU approval
Cardima, Inc. has received CE Mark approval for its Surgical Ablation Probe
with Stabilization Sheath. The system can be used in open-chest surgery in
conjunction with other procedures, or as a thoroscopic standalone,
closed-chest procedure. 9 April 2009
AtriCure’s cryoablation system receives
US FDA clearance.
AtriCure's disposable cryoablation system, Cryo1, received 510(k) clearance from the US FDA
for the cryosurgical treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. 8 April 2009
Physio-Control receives US clearance for
Lifepak 15 monitor/defibrillator. 8 April 2009
Boston Scientific launches new coronary
imaging catheter
Boston Scientific Corporation has launched its iCross coronary imaging
catheter, a product designed to improve the deliverability of the company's
intravascular ultrasound technology. 7 April 2009
Integrated care with electronic records
reduces cardiac deaths by 73%
Kaiser Permanente has substantially improved the heart attack survival rate
for its members in Colorado through an innovative program that links
coronary artery disease patients, and teams of pharmacists, nurses, primary
care doctors and cardiologists, with an electronic health record. 7 April
2009
Cardiac Science adds DICOM to cardiac
systems
Cardiac Science has added DICOM connectivity to its Quinton Q-Stress cardiac
stress testing system and Quinton Q-Tel cardiac rehabilitation system. 7
April 2009
Bioabsorbable coronary stent shows promise
in two-year study
A study published online in The Lancet from the ABSORB clinical
trial demonstrates that Abbott's bioabsorbable drug eluting stent
successfully treated coronary artery disease and was absorbed into the walls
of treated arteries within two years. 21 March 2009
Philips announces first 3D cardiovascular
images from magnetic particle imaging
The technology, which uses the magnetic properties of iron-oxide
nanoparticles injected into the bloodstream, has been used in a pre-clinical
study to generate unprecedented real-time images of arterial blood flow and
volumetric heart motion. 27 February 2009
deCODE genetics offers cut-price genetic
test for heart risks during February
deCODE genetics is offering its deCODEme Cardio Scan, a unique new tool that
enables individuals to better understand their inherited risk of heart
problems such as heart attack, stroke, abdominal aortic aneurysm, for $100.
12 February 2009
Medusa Siren ePCR Suite integrates with
Philips HeartStart MRx monitor/ defibrillator
Medusa Medical Technologies Inc. has announced that its electronic patient
care reporting software, the Siren ePCR Suite, now has an interface with the
Philips HeartStart MRx monitor/defibrillator. 31 January 2009
Richter-Helm and Athera Biotechnologies in
partnership to develop recombinant protein for cardiovascular disease
The partnership will develop and manufacture Athera's novel product for
prevention of plaque rupture and athero-thrombosis through binding of the
protein, Annexin A5, to endothelium. 31 January 2009
Philips collaborates with Bard
Electrophysiology to advance cardiac arrhythmia treatment
Royal Philips Electronics has announced an agreement with Bard
Electrophysiology to co-develop new clinical tools to help
electrophysiologists treat patients suffering from arrhythmias. 31 January
2009
Implantable defibrillators lower risk of
death in older heart patients
Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) can improve survival in
patients with heart damage — even those in their 70s — according to research
reported in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes. 21
January 2009
Two common biomarkers improve prediction
of stroke risk
Two common biomarkers associated with inflammation, lipoprotein-associated
phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP)
have been shown to improve the ability to predict who will suffer from a
stroke. 15 January 2009
ZOLL gains US clearance for R series
code-ready defibrillator with WiFi option
ZOLL Medical Corporation has received US FDA clearance for its ZOLL R series
code-ready clinical defibrillator with a WiFi option that allows wireless
communication between the defibrillator and standard hospital networks to
help ensure code-readiness and download patient data. 8 January 2009
Agfa wins contract from Antwerp University
Hospital for cardiovascular system
Antwerp University Hospital, Belgium, has awarded Agfa HealthCare a contract
for its IMPAX Cardiovascular solution. The contract will provide
enterprise-wide access to cardiology patient records to meet the high volume
diagnostic needs. 6 January 2009
Medtronic gains EU approval for world's
first MRI-safe pacemaker
Medtronic, Inc., has received the CE mark for the first-ever MR-conditional
pacemaker system, the EnRhythm MRI SureScan pacemaker and CapSureFix MRI
SureScan pacing leads (Model 5086MRI). 4 December 2008
Clinical Data launches genetic test for
arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy.
The company also announced plans to make its databases of genetic mutations
associated with inherited cardiac conditions, such as ARVC, available to the
public. 24 November 2008
Global Therapeutics initiates trial of
stent with RNA therapeutic agent to prevent artery closure
Global Therapeutics has announced initiation of the world’s first clinical
trial of a drug eluting stent that uses an antisense RNA therapeutics agent
aimed at silencing one of the genes (c-myc) responsible for causing arteries
to reclose after stenting (restenosis). 18 November 2008
Musgrove Hospital extends cardiac
procedures with new imaging system
Musgrove Hospital in Southwest England has installed a floor-mounted AXIOM
Artis zee interventional cardiac imaging system from Siemens for coronary
angiography, angioplasty and cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT). 9
November 2008
Radiometer adds NT-proBNP and Troponin T
to its cardiovascular point-of-care portfolio
Radiometer has added assays for NT-proBNP and Troponin T to the panel of
cardiovascular markers that can be assessed at the point of care using its
new AQT90 FLEX POC immunoassay platform. 9 November 2008
Philips and King's College London to
collaborate on research into heart disease
Philips and King’s College London will develop new medical imaging research
projects with a particular focus on cardiology and cardiac
electrophysiology. An area of focus will be on combining different imaging
technologies, such as X-ray, MRI, ultrasound and CT, to help doctors
navigate their way through a patient’s heart during minimal-invasive
procedures. 20 October 2008
GE Healthcare and Boston Scientific
collaborate on cardiovascular imaging
GE Healthcare and Boston Scientific Corporation have announced a
collaboration that enables improved intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) workflow
between the GE Healthcare Innova Cardiovascular x-ray system and the Boston
Scientific iLab ultrasound imaging system. 14 October 2008
Endovascular simulation at Transcatheter
Cardiovascular Therapeutics symposium
Medical Simulation Corporation (MSC) has teamed up with Boston Scientific
Corporation (BSC) to provide product- and procedure-based simulation
experiences aboard two BSC Mobile Simulation Labs to attendees of the 20th
annual Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics (TCT) scientific symposium
in Denver this week. 13 October 2008
Philips and STERIS in alliance to provide
hybrid surgical rooms for minimally invasive procedures
The alliance will combine Philips' cardiovascular X-ray systems and STERIS
HD 360° Suites technologies and design services to create a flexible
environment where clinicians can treat patients requiring minimally invasive
procedures, or those needing open surgery, within a single operating suite.
8 October 2008
First successful use of Sorin's new
pediatric oxygenator and arterial filter
The Sorin Group has announced the first successful uses in the US of its
newest pediatric devices for cardiovascular surgery at the Children’s
Medical Center Dallas. 29 September 2008
Italiano
SunTech Medical blood pressure monitor
chosen by GE for cardiac stress ECG systems
GE Healthcare will offer the SunTech Tango+ blood pressure monitor with its
CASE cardiac assessment system for exercise testing and CardioSoft exercise
stress testing. 18 September 2008
Early
warning system for cardiac patients
Latvian company Integris Ltd, has developed an inexpensive, real-time heart
activity monitor for personal use. The device is small enough to be worn
continuously and can monitor both heart activity and the patient's physical
activity and alerts the patient of abnormalities. 9 September 2008
St Jude Medical's HIFU cardiac ablation
system gains EU and US approval
St Jude Medical has received European and US clearance for its Epicor LP
cardiac ablation system that uses HIFU (high intensity focused ultrasound)
to surgically ablate cardiac tissue to disrupt abnormal electrical impulses
in the heart. 21 August 2008
Call to make sudden cardiac arrest a
national health priority in USA
The US National Medical Association (NMA) has called for changes in the
prevention and treatment paradigm for sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). It has
released a white paper that outlines directives for elevating SCA to a
national health priority and bringing it to the forefront of the policy
discussion. 13 August 2008
Cardiac Science reports revenue up 16%
Cardiac Science Corporation has announced revenue of $52.1 million for the
quarter ended June 30, 2008, a 16% growth compared to the same period last
year. 6 August 2008
Discovery of cardiovascular disease
antibodies may lead to immunization
Low levels of naturally occurring antibodies may represent an increased risk
of developing cardiovascular disease, particularly stroke in men. This
discovery, published in the journal Atherosclerosis, has now led to attempts
to develop an immunization against cardiovascular disease. 6 August 2008
Lifenet transmits defibrillator information from paramedics to hospital
via broadband
Physio-Control, a Medtronic subsidiary, has launched the Lifenet STEMI Management Solution, a combination of web, broadband and
medical technology, that reduces time to treatment for heart attack
patients. 5 August 2008
St Jude Medical wireless transmitter for
implanted cardiac devices gains FDA approval
The Merlin@home transmitter is a wireless system that transmits data from
implanted cardiac devices and enables remote monitoring of patients by
medical staff. 2 August 2008 Asahi Intecc and MediGuide collaborate on
guide-wire technology for cardiology
Asahi Intecc and MediGuide have signed a collaboration agreement for the
development and marketing of an innovative guide wire (G-Wire) using an
integrated, sub-millimetre magnetic tracking sensor for the interventional
cardiology market. 30 July 2008
New cardiovascular score developed to
improve heart attack and stroke detection
QRisk2 is an equation developed to help doctors identify those most at risk
of developing CVD and for the first time, simultaneously takes into account
extra risk from ethnicity, social deprivation and other clinical conditions
such as family history of heart disease or diabetes. 16 July 2008
Biotronik releases CRT pacemaker with
advanced algorithm for RVsense triggering
The Stratos LV cardiac resynchronization therapy pacemaker incorporates
RVsense Triggering which helps assure that resynchronization therapy is
delivered continuously, and expanded wideband IEGM Snapshot memory. 10 July
2008
Philips and Skytron team up to provide
hybrid operating rooms
Royal Philips Electronics and Skytron have entered into a partnership to
supply hybrid operating rooms for minimally invasive cardiovascular surgical
procedures, combining Philips’ cardiovascular x-ray systems with Skytron’s
surgery room equipment. 19 June 2008
Brain imaging identifies ways to help
stroke patients regain speech
An important breakthrough in understanding how the brain works could help
stroke patients to regain their speech. The new study shows that brains of
stroke sufferers may have to 'relearn' how to put together different types
of information in order to understand speech by using different parts of the
brain to compensate for damaged areas. 6 June 2008
 First
use of infrared laser imaging system to analyse coronary artery plaque
Physicians at a hospital in Michigan have successfully used the InfraReDx
LipiScan coronary imaging system in a patient undergoing a cardiac
catheterisation. The system detects how much fat and other substances are
contained in a plaque. 2 June 2008
Heart experts issue guidance on management
on implantable cardiac devices
The Heart Rhythm Society and the European Heart Rhythm Association have
issued an 'expert consensus' on the monitoring of cardiovascular implantable
electronic devices to ensure that these life-saving devices are managed
properly and patients receive the best possible care. 22 May 2008
Remote monitoring of pacemaker patients
improves detection of serious events
Remote monitoring of pacemaker patients via the Medtronic CareLink Network
detected clinically actionable events more quickly than routine follow-up
care of transtelephonic monitoring and in-office visit, according to a study
presented last week at the Heart Rhythm 2008 congress. 21 May 2008
Sorin Group to use Greatbatch’s MRI-safe
technology in cardiac devices
The Sorin Group has announced that it intends to use technology from
Greatbatch Inc to accelerate its programme to make its cardiac rhythm
management (CRM) systems MRI compatible. 21 May 2008
Philips releases new version of Xcelera
cardiology system
Royal Philips Electronics has begun shipping version 2.2 of its Xcelera
cardiology image management, analysis and reporting solution. The new
version offers enhanced functionality and greater workflow efficiency,
giving improved support for imaging studies and data from key cardiac
subspecialties. 18 May 2008
Agfa introduces cardiology solution for
lesion follow-up
The solution will be part of the company's IMPAX Cardiovascular system for
integrated data and image management in cardiology and will allow clinicians
to focus on the lesion follow-up history. 15 May 2008
Volcano Corp announces first human use of
imaging catheter
The OCT imaging platform provides high-resolution images in the 10-15 micron
range, opening the door for new applications to complement both IVUS and
angiography. 12 May
Boston Scientific announces EU and US
approval of new pacemakers
Boston Scientific Corporation has announced US Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) and CE Mark approval of its Altrua family of pacemakers. 12 May 2008
Home is where the best heart care is
 Joshua Rowe, chairman for telemedicine specialist Broomwell
Healthwatch, explains how a cardiac telemedicine service can improve
patient care whilst cutting the cost of congestive heart failure (CHF).
30 April 2008
Call for European action to combat heart
disease
A Call for Action encouraging European countries to develop national
strategies to combat 4.3 million deaths and economic loss of
€192 billion annually from heart disease
has been issued by the Joint European Societies on Cardiovascular Disease
Prevention. 29 April 2008
London clinic invests in early detection
of coronary disease
The Clinical Imaging and Research Centre at The Wellington Hospital in north
London has installed a Somatom Definition Dual Source CT, Symbia T6 Spect CT
and ultrasound scanners from Siemens to support its high volume clinical
work and to support its pioneering patient research projects. 17 April 2008
Philips and Mediguide announce clinical
trials of cardiac navigation system
Philips and Israeli company MediGuide have started clinical trials of a
system that enables real time tip positioning and navigation of an invasive
device used in coronary or cardiac intervention. 11 April 2008
Implanted wireless medical devices are
potential security risk for patients
Implanted medical devices with wireless technology have a potential risk of
unauthorised access to patient data and reprogramming of the device. 2 April
2008
Stentys completes $18 million financing
for bifurcated stent production Paris-based Stentys has completed an $18
million ‘series B’ round of venture financing that will allow it to complete
clinical trials and obtain EU clearance for its drug-eluting, bifurcated
stent. 31 March 2008
French Fire Brigade buys Zoll AutoPulse
units
The French Fire Brigade has contracted with Zoll Medical Corporation (Nasdaq
GS: ZOLL) to equip all of its rescue vehicles with the AutoPulse
non-invasive cardiac support pump in a deal worth US$1.1m. 28 March 2008
Philips continues buying spree with cardiac IT company Tomcat Systems
Royal Philips Electronics has announced it will
acquire Northern Ireland-based Tomcat Systems Ltd. Tomcat is a privately
held company producing cardiovascular information systems (CVIS). 27 March 2008
CircuLite starts European trial for
Synergy cardiac assist device
CircuLite, Inc. has announced a 20-patient trial for its Synergy micro
implantable blood pump. This follows successful completion of a first-in-man
pilot study of Synergy in four patients. 19 March 2008
NewCardio receives European patent for
wireless ECG technology
NewCardio a development-stage cardiac diagnostic and services company has
received a patent for the CardioBip, a proprietary device and methodology
for transtelephonic transmission of comprehensive ECG data. 19 March 2008
Axellis announces 'global expansion' with
three acquisitions
Axellis Ltd, a UK and US based medical technology company, has announced
three acquisitions, which it says are part of a strategy to become a
leading, global provider of specialist hardware and software solutions to
optimise treatments in oncology and cardiology. 19 March 2008
EACTS launches International Atrial
Fibrillation Registry
The European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS) has e launched
the International Atrial Fibrillation Registry (IAFR) in association with UK
company Dendrite Clinical Systems. The IAFR is designed to capture data and
report in patient outcomes following surgical treatment of atrial
fibrillation. 17 March 2008
First European implants of new Boston
Scientific defibrillators
Forty implants have been performed in 14 hospitals in six countries. The
company plans a full launch in Europe and other international markets in the
second quarter of this year. 6 March 2008
Ultrasound detection of emboli in brain
during surgery reduces stroke rates
Surgeons at the University of Leicester have developed a new technique to
detect emboli that has helped reduce stroke rates during and after a form of
heart surgery. 20 February 2008 Medrad
and Possis Medical to merge
Bayer HealthCare affiliate Medrad, Inc and Possis Medical, Inc. have
announced that they have agreed to merge in a deal worth about US$361
million. The merger is seen as combining complementary cardiology products:
Medrad's contrast injection systems and Possis Medical's mechanical
thrombectomy devices. 18 February 2008
iPods cleared of interfering with cardiac pacemakers
A study by the US Food and Drug Administration has refuted claims that
portable music players, such as Apple's iPod, interfere with cardiac
pacemakers. The study is reported in the open access journal BioMedical
Engineering OnLine. Boston
Scientific gains EU approval for new defibrillators
Boston Scientific Corporation has been awarded CE Mark approval for its
Cognis CRT defibrillator and Teligen ICD for treating heart failure and
sudden cardiac death. 30 January
European approval for Boston Scientific
defibrillator
Boston Scientific Corporation has gained the CE Mark approval for its Livian
cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator, which treats heart failure
and helps protect patients at risk of sudden cardiac death. 9 January
Delayed defibrillation in hospital reduces
survival
A study of patients who suffer a cardiac arrest in hospital has shown that
they are more likely to survive if their hearts are shocked back into rhythm
within two minutes, but 30% of such patients aren’t getting help fast
enough. 9 January CT angiography highly
accurate in detecting coronary artery disease
Computed tomography (CT) angiography is as accurate as an invasive angiogram
in detecting coronary artery disease, according to two 64-slice-scanner
trials. 29 November
 Philips
unveils rapid 3D CT scan system
Royal Philips Electronics' latest CT body scanner, Brilliance iCT scanner,
allows radiologists to produce high-quality images with exceptional
acquisition speed. 26 November Agfa
installs cardiology suite at Belgian Hospital
Agfa HealthCare has completed the installation of its Impax Cardiovascular
Suite at the AZ Imelda hospital in Bonheiden, Belgium. The enterprise-wide,
cardiology information management system and reporting solution allows
physicians to view both cardiology and radiology images and reports. 16
October 2007
Medtronic buys MRI-safe technology
for implanted devices from Biophan
Biophan's technologies reduce the normally dangerous heating and
induced voltages in wires to safe levels during MRI scans. 9 October
2007
Philips expands into US home
cardiac monitoring market with acquisition of Raytel Cardiac
Services
Royal Philips Electronics is to acquire US-based Raytel Cardiac
Services and other ancillary operations from SHL Telemedicine Ltd,
for approximately US$110 million in cash. 4 October
Neurosonix wins European cardiac
surgery innovation award for ultrasound device
Neurosonix Ltd has received an award from the European Association
of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS) for its EmBlocker ultrasound
device that provides protection against cerebral embolism during
heart surgery. 4 October 2007
US study to determine if imaging
can detect subclinical cardiovascular disease
One of the most challenging aspects of cardiovascular imaging is
going to be how to detect subclinical atherothrombosis disease in
order to address earlier management. The High Risk Plaque (HRP)
study will approach this challenge clinically and economically with
a multimodality approach. 18 September
New guidelines for treatment of
arterial hypertension
The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and the European Society of
Hypertension (ESH) have revised their 2003 guidelines. In 2000, 26%
(972 million) of the adult population worldwide had hypertension.
Identifying specific patients at risk of developing organ damage
will allow better deployment of preventative healthcare resources.
18 September
Groundbreaking treatments at new
London centre for cardiovascular MR
Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, has recently opened its new
Centre for Cardiovascular MR with two Magnetom Avanto MRI scanners
and an interventional cardiac catheterisation laboratory from
Siemens Medical Solutions. 11 September 2007
First implants for BioControl’s
device for congestive heart failure
Cardiologists and surgeons at in Germany and Italy have successfully
implanted BioControl's CardioFit device in the first patients as
part of a multi-center clinical study. 13 August 2007
CardioFocus receives European
approval for endoscopic cardiac ablation system
The device combines endoscopic visualization and guidance with the
delivery of therapeutic light energy to perform pulmonary vein
isolation for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. 5 August
Heart screening project to save
athletes from sudden cardiac death
UK charity Cardiac Risk in the Young is launching a campaign to
screen all leading athletes as part of a five-year study to
understand the causes of sudden cardiac death in young people. 27
July 2007
 Medical
heart images on iPhone
Using Heart Imaging Technologies' system, physicians can simply
click on a web link on the phone sent via email by one of their
colleagues, enter their password, and view medical images. 25 July
2007
St Jude Medical gains European
approval for heart failure devices. 15 May 2007
Biosense Webster and Medtronic
collaborate to advance cardiac arrhythmia care.
The companies have announced plans to collaborate on a clinical
trial, educational initiatives and a product development program, to
advance the care of patients with cardiac arrhythmias. 10 May 2007
Remote monitoring improves
clinical outcomes for heart patients
According to Australian and Canadian research, remote monitoring for
patients with chronic heart failure helped reduce heart failure
admissions to hospitals and lowered all cause mortality by nearly
20%. 30 April 2007
Dental X-rays of carotid artery
not enough to estimate stroke risk
A review of research on the detection of calcified tissue in the
carotid artery by dental x-rays has found that the technique does
not give enough evidence to estimate a patient’s stroke risk. 30
April 2007
ECG can predict cardiovascular
problems in women
Postmenopausal women without symptoms of cardiovascular problems who
have minor or major abnormalities on an electrocardiogram are at
increased risk of future cardiovascular events and death. 29 March
2007
 Combined
MRI and echocardiography improves stroke diagnosis
Using both MRI and echocardiography to image the heart greatly
enables physicians to identify the cause of strokes, especially
cardioembolic strokes. The technique could revolutionise patient
care.14 March 2007
First implants and EU approval for
Sorin REPLY pacemakers
This new pacemaker line is designed to deliver automatic,
physiologic pacing adapted to patients who have bradyarrhythmia. 8
March 2007
Philips unveils networked patient
monitor combined with defibrillator
The Philips HeartStart MRx can serve as a wireless transport
monitor/defibrillator or cardiac bedside monitor/defibrillator with
built-in pacing, synchronized cardioversion and defibrillation
capabilities. 23 February 2007
Medtronic begins European and US
trial of MRI-compatible pacemaker system
The first patients in the trial were recently implanted with the new
Medtronic EnRhythm MRI SureScan pacing system. The study will
compare the electrical and diagnostic system performance, as well as
complication rates of patients with and without MRI scans. 13
February 2007
Philips introduces imaging tool
for complex cardiac arrhythmias
The Philips EP navigator combines pre–interventional 3D CT images of
a patients’ cardiac anatomy with live X-ray fluoroscopy catheter
position information in a single image, allowing physicians to
navigate more easily through the heart during complex procedures. 7
Feb 2007
Chinese market for personal
blood-pressure monitors growing at 33%
The Chinese market for home-use digital blood-pressure monitors will
grow at over 33% per year, driven by lower prices and increased
awareness, according to a new report from InMedica. 7 Feb 2007
Home blood-pressure monitor market
to reach $1bn by 2010
The world market for home-use digital blood pressure monitors is
worth almost $800 million. The increase in hypertension and use of
telehealth will lead to growth of 6.7% per year, taking it to $1
billion by 2010, according to a report by InMedica. 30 Jan 2007
EP MedSystems and Philips launch
new ultrasound platform for cath lab
The new ViewMate II ultrasound system is based on Philips' HD11 XE
platform and has been developed for use with EP MedSystems’ ViewFlex
intracardiac (ICE) imaging catheters. 16 Jan 2007
One-third of implanted heart
devices may be unnecessary
A new study has found that a large number of patients with implanted
cardiac devices may not benefit from them and that a simple
heart-rhythm test can tell who will not benefit. 10 Jan 2007
 Focused
ultrasound used to treat atrial fibrillation
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania are trialling high
intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation to correct the
electrical signals controlling hearts suffering from atrial
fibrillation. 15 Dec 2006
Cardiac Science ships Atria 3100
electrocardiograph. 12 Dec 2006
Medtronic to spin-off external
defibrillation business. 11 Dec 2006
Pre-hospital care in Lund, Sweden
doubles survival rates for sudden cardiac arrest. 8 Dec 2006
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 4D
MRI scans of child heart help predict outcome of heart surgery
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the hearts of children with
heart defects can be used to create three-dimensional models to test
the effect of surgical procedures. This can help surgeons plan
optimum surgery for each child’s congenital heart defect. 29
November 2006
Sorin Group initiates European study to
show superiority of dual chamber ICDs. 20 Nov 2006
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Pacemakers may be better than beta
blockers for some heart failure patients
Patients suffering from certain types of heart failure may benefit more from
pacemakers than from long-term use of medication, according to new research.
12 Nov 2006
Coronary plaque characterization software
from Toshiba and Vital Images
The new software features include improved integration, colour coding of
vessel walls, noncalcified and calcified plaque, and improved visualization
of lesion boundaries and plaque types with automated measurement and
quantification tools. 31 October 2006
Sorin Group introduces advanced
defibrillation therapy to Japanese market
Sorin Group subsidiary ELA Medical has launched its ALTO 2 line of
implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) in Japan and announced the
first implants. 23 Oct 2006
Personal ECG heart monitor on sale to
public in UK
Medick Healthcare has launched what it claims is the world’s first
intelligent personal ECG (electrocardiogram) heart monitor. It monitors the
rhythm of the heart in real time, and allows users to directly see the
impact of everything from smoking and caffeine through to exercise on the
heart’s performance. 17 October 2006
St Jude Atlas heart failure devices gain
European approval
The Atlas II ICD and Atlas II defibrillators are the newest of the company's
high-powered devices for treatment of patients with potentially lethal heart
arrhythmias and heart failure. 13 Oct 2006
Cardioscan reduces unnecessary cardiac
referrals by primary care physicians
The Zargis Cardioscan can reduce rates of unnecessary referrals by primary
care physicians regarding heart murmurs by an average of 41%, according to a
recent study. 13 Oct 2006
MRIs made safe for people with
defibrillators and pacemakers
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University claim to have overcome the problems
of taking magnetic resonance images of people with implanted defibrillators
and pacemakers. They have painstakingly figured out how to safely perform
MRI scans on men and women who have any one of 24 modern types of these
implanted devices. 8 Oct 2006
 Philips
previews new cath lab
Royal Philips Electronics previewed its Ambient Experience
Catheterization Lab at the Philips Simplicity Event in London. The lab is
designed to improve the workflow of physicians and reduce the anxiety of
heart patients undergoing catheterization. 7 Oct 2006
Biotronik's new Lumax ICD with
telemonitoring of heart and device
Biotronik’s new Lumax implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)
contains not only a defibrillator that can deliver life-saving
electric shocks to the heart, but also integrates a technology that
monitors the functions of both the heart and the device itself. 3
Oct 2006
Boston Scientific launches
less-invasive visualization system for cardiac surgical ablation
Boston Scientific's new FLEXView System enables physicians to
perform stand-alone ablation procedures in a closed chest
environment with direct visualization of the procedure at all times.
29 Sept 2006
Philips launches new cardiology
ultrasound system
The new Philips HD11 XE is designed to meet the specific needs of
cardiologists through more powerful cardiac capabilities. 29 Sept
2006
Philips releases defibrillators
compliant with newest guidelines from AHA, ERC and ILCOR. 8 Sept
2006
University Hospital Cologne to be
certified to implant CardioWest artificial heart
Members of the cardiac transplant team will begin the first of a
three-part certification programtraining to implant the CardioWest
temporary Total Artificial Heart (TAH-t) on 4 Sept. 1 Sept 2006
Medtronic launches three new
pacemakers
Medtronic, Inc.,has introduced the Adapta, Versa, and Sensia fully
automatic pacemakers. Recently approved by the FDA, they provide
physiologic pacing adapted to the needs of individual patients. 28
August 2006
Boston Scientific launches iLab
for ultrasound imaging within heart and blood vessels
The system can be directly installed into the cardiac
catheterization lab or radiology suite and give rapid access to
images for diagnosis. 25 July 2006
New training tool for
interventional cardiologists
TeachFFR.com is a web-based teaching tool that consists of narrated,
interactive case studies demonstrating the proper use of fractional
flow reserve (FFR) measurement techniques, which physicians use
during interventions to assess lesion severity. 17 July 2006
Boston Scientific issues safety
alert for Guidant pacemakers and defibrillators
Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE: BSX) announced that it is
providing safety information and retrieving a specific subset of
pacemakers, cardiac resynchronization pacemakers and implantable
cardioverter defibrillators from its sales force and hospital
inventories. 27 June 2006
Sorin Group initiates multi-centre
study of heart failure patients in Europe
Sorin Group's Cardiac Rhythm Management (CRM) Business Unit has
announced the first patient enrolments in Germany and Portugal in a
study of the clinical relevance of slow ventricular tachycardias (VTs)
in a heart failure population. 22 June 2006
Growth potential for cardiology
PACS in Europe
End-user willingness to purchase digital cardiology picture
archiving and communications systems is forecast to increase the
market from US$73.6 million in 2005 to US$200.5 million in 2012. 21
June 2006
QuickOpt optimizes cardiac
resynchronization therapy in under two minutes
A clinical trial of St Jude Medical's QuickOpt timing cycle
optimization feature for its implantable defibrillators found that
it was consistently comparable to a traditional echocardiography
procedure for determining optimal conduction delays. 20 June 2006
European trial shows greater
efficacy of dual chamber over single chamber ICDs
A recent study has shown that clinically significant adverse events
can be reduced by one-third with dual chamber ICDs compared to
single chamber ICDs in patients at risk of sudden cardiac death. 20
June 2006
Medtronic launches implantable
cardiac devices with wireless telemetry in Europe
Medtronic has announced European approval and market availability of
its Concerto and Virtuoso line of implantable cardiac
defibrillators, its first such devices with wireless telemetry for
remote monitoring of patient health. 19 June 2006
 Heart
surgery patients in Europe can recover at home with portable
artificial heart
Berlin Heart AG, maker of the Excor Ventricular Assist Devices for
children and adults, has received the European CE Mark, which allows
it to market a modified version of its Excor Mobile Driving Unit
with the CardioWest artificial heart in Europe. 1 June 2006
Visualizer for heart surgery training
The visualizer enables a consultant to demonstrate, describe and discuss
surgical procedures with a student audience and ensures the heart is
perfectly illuminated so that students can see all the heart detail on
screen. 3 May 2006
Sorin Group stresses key role of pacing
technology in avoiding unnecessary ventricular pacing
Sorin Group has begun a European awareness campaign on the risks associated
with unnecessary pacing of the right ventricle from cardiac implantable
devices. It significantly increases the risk of patients developing heart
failure (HF) and atrial fibrillation (AF). 25 April 2006
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Italiano
 Siemens
introduces cardiology software for MRT scans
Siemens new software, syngo BEAT, reduces MR examinations of the heart to a
few mouse clicks — even for patients suffering from arrhythmia. It enables
faster and more accurate diagnostics and increases efficiency in cardiology.
25 April 2006
Cardiac Science defibrillators meet new
European and American guidelines
Cardiac Science Corporation has shipped two new models of its Powerheart
automated external defibrillators (AEDs) that meet new American Heart
Association and European Resuscitation Council guidelines. 23 April 2006
Medtronic introduces cardiopulmonary
bypass system
Medtronic has received U.S. FDA clearance for its Performer Cardiopulmonary
Bypass System (CPB), an integrated, compact console that provides support of
the circulatory system during a variety of cardiac surgical procedures. 21
April 2006
Magnetically guided catheter aids radio
frequency ablation treatment of heart
A remotely-controlled catheter device guided by magnetic fields can provide
a safe and practical method for delivering radio frequency ablation
treatment in the hearts of patients with atrial fibrillation. 21 April 2006
European clinical trial of beating heart
transplant system
TransMedics, Inc., has initiated a multi-centre European trial to evaluate
the safety and performance of its Organ Care System for heart transplants.
There are currently two trialsites in Germany and two in the UK. 14 March
2006
Trials of GE's 64-slice CT as diagnostic
tool for cardiovascular disease
GE Healthcare will sponsor a series of multi-centre, multi-patient trials to
further validate the clinical efficacy of its LightSpeed VCT computed
tomography (CT) system as a method for the diagnosis and treatment planning
of cardiovascular disease. 14 March 2006
Medtronic initiates 50-site study of
defibrillator with wireless telemetry
Medtronic has begun the first implants in a trial of its Concerto cardiac
resynchronization therapy defibrillator (CRT-D) with atrial therapies (AT).
The study will involve up to 425 patients at approximately 50 sites in
Europe, the United States and Japan. 9 February 2006
Increasing cardiac disorders in Europe
driving demand for diagnostic imaging systems
An increase in the incidence of cardiac disorders has led to a rise in the
number of diagnostic procedures, thereby resulting in a spurt in
interventional cardiac catheterisation procedures. There is also a greater
demand for non-invasive diagnostic techniques using CT and MR imaging
systems. 5 February 2006
First study of cardiac resynchronization
therapy using
ultrasound and CT
The Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center in California will use a Toshiba
ultrasound system in conjunction with a 64-slice computerised tomography
system to assess outcomes following cardiac resynchronization therapy. 18
November 2005
Remote cardiac monitoring network
reaches 50,000 patients
The Medtronic CareLink Network has enrolled 50,000 patients and registered
over 120,000 data downloads since its launch in 2002. The system allows
patients to receive expert medical advice from their physician while at home
or travelling. 18 November 2005
CT image of heart captured in five beats
A study conducted at the at Centre Cardiologique de Nord in France has shown
that the LightSpeed VCT computed tomography scanner, can capture images of
the human heart in as few as five beats. This can help physicians improve
the success rate of coronary CT imaging when compared with scan durations of
10 seconds or longer. 15 November 2005
Real-time monitoring and feedback improves
cardiopulmonary resuscitation delivery
Verbal and visual feedback improves the quality of cardiopulmonary
resuscitation (CPR) delivered by paramedics and emergency medical
technicians, according to the findings of a study announced by Royal Philips
Electronics, in partnership with Laerdal. 15 November 2005
GE Healthcare and Volcano Corporation to
develop cath lab with X-ray and ultrasound
The two companies will collaborate to develop a digital cardiovascular
imaging system with fully integrated X-ray and intravascular ultrasound
imaging (IVUS) capabilities. This is intended to give interventional
cardiologists a clear view of coronary and peripheral vessel morphology for
therapeutic procedures such as stent placement. 5 November 2005
 Clinical
studies demonstrate effectiveness of Siemens 64-slice CT scans in cardiac
care
Three studies of 64-slice computed tomography (CT) in cardiac care have been
published in peer-reviewed journals by Siemens' clinical collaborators in
Switzerland, USA and Germany. 16 October 2005
Impedance cardiography helps identify
patients at risk of heart failure
A study conducted by the San Diego Veterans Administration Healthcare System
and University of California found that impedance cardiography (ICG) and BNP
testing can help predict heart failure-related. 2 October 2005
Web-enabled cardiology system from
Cardiac Science
Cardiac Science Corporation has launched a web version of its Pyramis
cardiology data management system. Authorised users will be able to
access cardiology data with full privileges fro anywhere. It will also allow
further integration with the Cerner Millennium hospital information
system. 2 October 2005
Siemens interventional cardiac
technology provides 3D visualisation of coronary vessels
 Interventional
Cardiac 3D (IC3D) technology will provide clinicians with a helpful and
important tool in the evaluation of patients prior to stenosis.
24 September 2005
Cardiac resynchronization therapy saves
many lives cost-effectively
Three new studies of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) show that it
offers sustained all-cause mortality improvements, is a cost-effective
therapy and improves heart pumping function. It slows the progression of
heart failure, reduces hospitalisations and saves lives in many
heart-failure patients. 13 September 2005
Nihon Kohden and Inovise Medical in
partnership to improve cardiac diagnosis
Nihon Kohden Corporation, a leading provider of cardiology equipment in
Japan and China, and Inovise Medical, an Oregon-based cardiac diagnostic
company, have signed a multi-year agreement to integrate Inovise Medical's
Audicor heart sounds detection and analysis technology into the next
generation of Nihon Kohden electrocardiographs. 12 September 2005
Defibrillators in schools can save
lives — only if managed properly
Approximately 7000 children, including adolescents, die from sudden cardiac
arrest each year in the USA. Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) help
schools to be prepared in the event of a cardiac emergency and potentially
save the life of a student, employee, or visitor. 11 September 2005
Agfa launches new cardiology portfolio
on the back of Heartlab acquisition
Agfa HealthCare Business Group has launched a new cardiology portfolio that
provides a single point of access and integrates cardiology, radiology and
wider clinical systems. 7 September 2005
Philips launches new cardiology
ultrasound system
Royal Philips Electronics launched the new Philips HD11 XE cardiology
ultrasound system at the European Society of Cardiology conference, hosted
in Stockholm. he HD11 XE adds a variety of features to help physicians more
accurately measure heart chambers, wall motion and ejection fraction. 7
September 2005
Implantable heart monitor automatically
alerts via satellite
A new FDA-approved defibrillator can automatically send a signal to a doctor
via wireless satellite transmission if a patient’s heart beats abnormally or
if the device malfunctions. 31 August 2005
Cardiac care at Royal Brompton boosted
by Siemens cardiac CT system
To fulfil the demand for more complex cardiac care, the Royal Brompton
Hospital in London has commissioned the first Siemens Biplane Cardiac CT
System with flat plate detectors in England. 19 August 2005
St Jude Medical's remote patient
monitoring system receives FDA approval
The new version of software for the St Jude Medical's Housecall Plus remote
patient monitoring system has received approval from the United States FDA.
The system monitors implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) patients.
21 July 2005
Caffeine and exercise can prevent clear
PET and CT imaging of heart
Consumption of caffeine before a positron emission tomography (PET) or
computed tomography (CT) scan of the heart can increase the amount of
chemical tracer in the heart and obscure the images. If a person exercises
or drinks coffee before having a PET/CT scan, the heart beats faster,
causing more tracer to appear in the heart region, obscuring the view. 13
July 2005
Heart monitoring device lets patients
record their own ECG
A new handheld monitoring device launched by Trident International
Corporation lets patients record their electrocardiogram (ECG) anytime and
anywhere. The ReadMyHeart captures information vital to better
cardiovascular disease management n only 30 seconds. 6 July 2005
First implants of Medtronic Adapta
pacemaker for slow heart rhythm
Medtronic has started clinical studies to evaluate its Adapta pacemaker in
Serbia, Germany and Austria. Within the next year, Medtronic expects to
introduce a portfolio of fully automatic pacemakers, the Adapta, Versa, and
Sensia, in countries worldwide. 6 July 2005
FDA issues notification of recall of
Guidant defibrillators and Guidant issues new warnings
The FDA said some Guidant defibrillators can develop an internal short
circuit without warning, resulting in failure to deliver a shock when
needed. Guidant has said that magnetic switches in other models may become
stuck. 26 June 2005
Multislice Computed Tomography shows
promise for noninvasive detection of coronary artery disease. 10 June
2005
Shock wave therapy gives remarkable
results in wound healing and curing myocardial diseases
Effective, non-invasive and practically without side effects, extracorporeal
shock wave therapy has demonstrated impressive results not only in
orthopaedics and traumatology, but also in treating fresh and chronic wounds
as well as circulatory disorders of the myocardial muscle. 8 June 2005
New cardiovascular imaging system
introduced by GE Healthcare
GE Healthcare's new Innova(R) 2100IQ will enhance clinicians' ability to
diagnose and treat heart disease and enable more precise placement of
interventional devices such as stents, balloons and filters. 2 June 2005
Medtronic supports new European
guidelines on use of ICDs and CRT as heart failure therapies
Under the new ESC heart-failure guidelines, implantable cardioverter-defibrillators
(ICDs) and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) have been designated
Class I for indicated heart failure patients, which means they are
recognized as standard-of-care treatments for many heart failure patients
already on optimal medical therapy. 29 May 2005
Defibrillators help explain mystery of
emotionally triggered sudden cardiac arrest
The electrical characteristics of anger-triggered arrhythmias are more
disorganised and unstable than arrhythmias unrelated to emotional events,
giving a possible clue explaining why sudden cardiac arrest increases in
people during stressful times. 21 May 2005
Biosense Webster software provides more
precise imaging and navigation of the heart
The software enables electrophysiologists to create 3-D electroanatomical
maps to give a more precise view of the heart, allowing them to better
navigate catheters to targeted points within the heart. 21 May 2005
Medtronic streamlines clinician access
to cardiac device data with wireless communications
Medtronic has announced three major advances that help streamline use of
important cardiac data. The company has received US FDA approval to
distribute a wireless-enabled, in-clinic device programmer, the Medtronic
CareLink programmer which will enable wireless communication with implanted
devices and high-speed data connectivity using the MICS radiofrequency band.
19 May 2005
Medtronic evaluates remote monitoring
of heart activity, weight and blood pressure in heart failure patients
Medtronic has begun a U.S. pilot evaluation with Carematix, Inc. to assess
the efficacy and convenience of remotely monitoring physiological heart
data, weight and blood pressure in the management of heart failure. 14 May
2005
Biophan releases additional data on
pacemaker and defibrillator lead heating
Research by Biophan Technologies has revealed that the most prevalent
heating occurs not at the electrode tip of a lead, but actually a short
distance away from the electrode tip, in the tissue itself. 14 May 2005
Biophan
veröffentlicht neue Daten über Erwärmung von Schrittmacherkabeln
Biophan Technologies, Inc. ein Innovationsunternehmen, das
biomedizinische Technologie der nächsten Generation entwickelt,
veröffentlichte heute weitere technische Daten über seine Forschung über die
Erwärmung von Kabeln von Schrittmachern und implantierbaren Defibrillatoren.
14 Mai 2005
Siemens introduces revolutionary
nuclear cardiology imaging system
Siemens Medical Solutions has announced that its c.cam — a unique, reclining
dedicated cardiac gamma camera system — will be available for the European
market. 4 May 2005
MRI technology enables non-invasive
imaging of implantable blood filters to prevent pulmonary embolism
Biophan Technologies has announced that a new round of experimental tests
have demonstrated the ability of the company's proprietary technology to
enable MRIs of Vena Cava filters. Vena Cava filters are implanted in the
Vena Cava of some patients undergoing surgery to capture and trap blood
clots that have the potential to cause embolisms. May 2005
University of Florida students build
smaller, smarter heart pump
The miniaturised heart pump could become a life-saving alternative for
patients waiting in long lines for scarce donor hearts. The device has novel
pumping technology that makes it smaller and smarter than currently
available ventricular assist devices. May 2005
Worldwide research to demonstrate
benefits of fluid status monitoring for heart failure patients
Medtronic has announced a series of worldwide clinical studies designed to
further demonstrate the patient and clinician advantages of the new
implantable InSync Sentry system to help detect and manage worsening heart
failure. April 2005
Medtronic recalls additional
defibrillators
Medtronic has identified an additional 396 monophasic LIFEPAK 500 automated
external defibrillators (AEDs) to be included in a voluntary recall
originally announced on Feb. 25, 2005. The company will be contacting the
owners of the devices. April 2005
Imaging
technology could guide therapy designed to prevent heart attacks
A catheter-based imaging technology called
optical coherence tomography (OCT) can successfully identify the
characteristics of coronary plaques in patients with various cardiac
symptoms, according to researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH).
April 2005
European premier for combined single
photon emission CT and diagnostic CT at Erlangen Hospital
The Nuclear Medicine Clinic and the Radiological Institute at Erlangen
University Hospital have begun using Europe’s first combined system for
SPECT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography) and diagnostic Computed
Tomography. This opens new opportunities for physicians in detecting tumours
and cardiac diseases. April 2005
Medwave to provide sensor-based non-invasive blood
pressure solutions to Analogic Corp.
Analogic will incorporate Medwave's non-invasive blood pressure technology
into its patient monitoring product line. Analogic will also integrate
Medwave's sensor-based blood pressure solutions into their own products, or
products that they design and manufacture for other medical device
companies. March 2005
Philips introduces new
cardiology products and technologies at ACC annual meeting. March 2005
Cardiac
resynchronization therapy saves lives and reduces hospitalisations in heart
failure patients
The results of the CARE-HF (Cardiac Resynchronization in Heart Failure)
randomised, controlled trial were presented during a Late-Breaking Clinical
Trial session at the American College of Cardiology Annual Scientific
Session. March 2005
GE showcases advances in
cardiac care at ACC congress
These include GE's first cardiology-specific installation of its
next-generation CT scanner, its third all-digital heart hospital in the
United States built from the ground up, and cardiology research using GE's
CodeLink system. March 2005
First home blood pressure monitor to detect and accurately
flag irregular heart beat
Microlife USA today announced the launch of its new upper arm blood pressure
monitor, the first home blood pressure monitor to detect the appearance
irregular heartbeat and notify the user of the irregularity. March 2005
Criticare Systems releases
new blood pressure measurement technology
Criticare Systems has released a new technology platform for non-invasive
blood pressure measurement utilizing a traditional BP cuff. This system is
based on the Criticare-pioneered "on inflation" principal but adds a greater
level of patient comfort, safety, accuracy, reading speed and tolerance of a
wide range of physical and environmental conditions. March 2005
Medwave launches new
blood pressure module developers kit
Medwave has released its new enhanced OEM module developers kit, which
allows medical device manufacturers to sample the Medwave blood pressure
technology in a development setting without investment in engineering
resources or time. March 2005
Arrhythmia Research Technology, to sponsor satellite session
at ISHNE/ISE congress in Gdansk
Arrhythmia Research Technology will sponsor a satellite session, "Signal
Averaged ECG — Is SAECG Back?" at the The Joint Congress of the
International Society for Holter and Noninvasive Electrocardiology (ISHNE)
and the International Society of Electrocardiology (ISE) in Gdansk from June
2–4, 2005. March 2005
SonoSite to highlight cardiac capabilities of TITAN
ultrasound system at congress
SonoSite will showcase its high performance TITAN ultrasound system,
including the new SonoCalc IMT software for assessment of cardiovascular
risk, at the 54th Annual Scientific Session of the American College of
Cardiology (ACC), March 6-9, 2005. March 2005
Edwards Lifesciences pays tribute to Dr
Jeremy Swan's contributions to medical technology
Edwards Lifesciences Corporation paid tribute today to the late
Jeremy Swan, M.D., chairman emeritus of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center's
division of cardiology and co-inventor of the Edwards Swan-Ganz pulmonary
artery catheter. The device has helped clinicians evaluate cardiovascular
performance during heart surgery in more than 25 million patients. February
2005
Nexense launches home monitoring
products based on contactless biosensors
The new product line is based on Nexense’s biosensor platform, which offers
contact-free monitoring of vital signs, including heart and pulse rate, in a
non-intrusive and non-radiating manner. February 2005
Study shows effectiveness of blood pressure monitor in emergency transport
Medwave's Vasotrac blood pressure monitor performed with a high degree of
accuracy in the in ground ambulance, helicopter and jet air transport
vehicles. February 2005
Thousands of UK heart failure deaths could be prevented, according to new
survey
One of the largest surveys ever undertaken on heart failure shows that
inadequate awareness, diagnosis and treatment may be contributing to
thousands of preventable deaths every year. In the UK, heart failure claims
at least 24,000 lives each year. February 2005
Long Beach Memorial to implant world's
first device to manage the heart's fluid accumulation. January 2005
OR-Live.com presents: live heart surgical
broadcast of a robotic assisted Mitral valve repair. January 2005
Boston Scientific launches drug-eluting
stent system. January 2005
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