A randomized trial from Japan suggests that some populations might fare better from a multidrug strategy based on an angiotensin receptor blocker for lowering blood pressure. Medscape Medical News
Hailed as a landmark, the POISE trial has nevertheless generated mixed results, with no clear indication as to who will benefit and who will be harmed by the perioperative use of beta-blockers. Medscape Medical News
The Thoratec Corp announced yesterday that last month it initiated a recall of some of its implantable ventricular assist devices manufactured since 2004. Heartwire
A phase 2 study of a nicotine vaccine has shown that the highest dose tested produced antibodies against nicotine and was associated with a higher rate of smoking cessation than placebo. Heartwire
Researchers in North Carolina have instituted one of the largest and most extensive programs in the US to improve the treatment of STEMI, demonstrating significant improvements in quality of care. But there is still much work to be done. Heartwire
In the Asymptomatic Diabetics Study, most patients who had aggressive treatment of cardiac risk factors had resolution of ischemia on repeat stress imaging after 3 years. Medscape Medical News
George L. Bakris, MD, Professor of Medicine at the University of Chicago School of Medicine, summarizes key points from the first Cardio Kidney Diabetes (CKD) Global Consensus Conference, 2007. Medscape Nephrology
Magnetic resonance imaging has emerged as an excellent means to diagnose peripheral arterial disease. The current article compares magnetic resonance imaging with other imaging modalities and reviews practical concerns with the practice of magnetic resonance angiography. Nature Clinical Practice Cardiovascular Medicine
