The drug showed a trend toward a slowing of the progression of atherosclerosis and an overall positive effect on metabolic factors in the VICTORY study in post-CABG diabetes patients. Heartwire
According to a randomized trial, reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and hypertension to lower-than-normal targets appear to produce regressions in atherosclerosis in patients with dia Medscape Medical News
Children who had surgery for congenital heart disease as infants had an increased risk for problems with inattention and hyperactivity and often required remedial services in school. Medscape Medical News
In a study of 430 patients transplanted during a 10-year period, body mass index (BMI) was not an independent predictor of mortality, and no level of BMI led to significantly worse survival. Medscape Medical News
Three-year results from the SAPPHIRE trial comparing carotid stenting with distal protection and endarterectomy in patients at high surgical risk show no significant difference in major cardiovascular events between groups, researchers report. Medscape Medical News
A new analysis has shown that the benefits of using ultrasound contrast agents outweigh the risks. Most important, withholding the use of such agents in patients who need them can be detrimental, says the lead investigator. Reporting her findings last week, she called on the FDA to reconsider the warnings it has placed on these products. Heartwire
In a 1996 birth cohort in northern Finland, these perinatal characteristics appear to lead to systemic low-grade inflammation, which may increase the risk for adverse adult cardiovascular health. Medscape Medical News
Duke researchers designed the CODA trial to determine optimal clopidogrel duration post-DES but also to "evolve the regulatory landscape" for dealing with complicated device-drug regulatory approvals. But researchers, government agencies, and industry sponsors cannot necessarily agree on the trial design. Meanwhile, MATRIX registry results reinforce the urgent need for randomized clinical trial data. Heartwire
Children from families with low socioeconomic status who undergo heart transplantation have twice the risk for graft failure as pediatric heart recipients from wealthier families. Medscape Medical News
