ACCEL Lite: Featured ACCEL Interviews on Exciting CV Research
The American College of Cardiology offers select interviews and summaries of cardiology’s most interesting research areas from ACCEL’s renowned library, hosted by ACCEL Editor-in-Chief Alison L. Bailey, MD, FACC, FAACPVR.
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How Does Imaging Guide Management in Patients with Obesity?
11/18/2025
How Does Imaging Guide Management in Patients with Obesity?
Imaging is a powerful tool in managing obesity, helping clinicians visualize fat distribution and detect complications like fatty liver disease or heart issues. Advanced techniques like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans guide personalized treatment plans and monitor progress over time. Despite challenges with equipment limitations, innovations like artificial intelligence and specialized scanners are making imaging more accessible and accurate for patients with obesity. In this interview, W. Douglas Weaver MD, MACC and Mouaz H. Al-Mallah, MD, FACC discuss “How Does Imaging Guide Management in Patients with Obesity?” Podcasts
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TACSI Trial: Dual or Single Antiplatelet Therapy After CABG in Patients With ACS
11/11/2025
TACSI Trial: Dual or Single Antiplatelet Therapy After CABG in Patients With ACS
In the TACSI trial, researchers evaluated ticagrelor plus aspirin versus aspirin alone in about 2,200 patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) for acute coronary syndrome (ACS). At 12 months, dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) did not reduce major adverse cardiac events compared to aspirin alone. However, it was associated with a higher risk of major bleeding. These findings do not support routine DAPT use post-CABG in ACS patients, though longer-term follow-up is still needed. In this interview, Drs. Steven E. Nissen and Anders Jeppsson discuss “TACSI Trial: Dual or Single Antiplatelet Therapy After CABG in Patients With ACS”. SUGGESTED MATERIALS: Jeppsson A, James S, Moller CH, et al. Ticagrelor and Aspirin or Aspirin Alone after Coronary Surgery for Acute Coronary Syndrome. N Engl J Med. Published online September 1, 2025. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2508026 TACSI: Dual or single antiplatelet therapy after CABG in patients with acute coronary syndrome: Reported from ESC Congress 2025 (PCRonline website). 2025. Available at: . Accessed 10/31/25.
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VICTORION-Difference: Inclisiran-Based Strategy vs. Standard of Care
11/04/2025
VICTORION-Difference: Inclisiran-Based Strategy vs. Standard of Care
Current clinical challenges in lipid control include achieving and maintaining target LDL-cholesterol levels in patients at high risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, especially those who do not respond adequately to standard therapies. The VICTORION-Difference trial demonstrated that an inclisiran-based treatment strategy significantly outperformed usual care in helping patients reach early and sustained LDL-C goals. This approach also resulted in fewer muscle-related side effects, a common barrier to adherence. Inclisiran offers a convenient, effective, and well-tolerated option for improving lipid management in these patients. In this interview, Drs. Kim A. Williams and Ulf Landmesser discuss “VICTORION-Difference: Inclisiran-Based Strategy vs. Standard of Care.”
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Aortopathies: What A Cardiologist Needs to Know
10/28/2025
Aortopathies: What A Cardiologist Needs to Know
What if your genes could predict a life-threatening condition before symptoms ever appear? Explore how medical science uncovered the genetic roots of thoracic aortic aneurysm—and why that discovery changed everything. From famous historical figures to modern patients, the implications are profound: understanding the exact genetic mutation can guide treatment and safeguard entire families. In this interview, Drs. Jeroen J. Bax and John A. Elefteriades discuss “Aortopathies: What A Cardiologist Needs to Know”.
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PhysioSync-HF: Conduction System vs. Biventricular Pacing in Cardiac Resynchronization in HFrEF
10/21/2025
PhysioSync-HF: Conduction System vs. Biventricular Pacing in Cardiac Resynchronization in HFrEF
Can a newer, more targeted pacing method revolutionize heart failure treatment? The PhysioSync-HF trial investigates conduction system pacing as a potentially more effective and affordable alternative to traditional cardiac resynchronization therapy. Explore the surprising differences between this study and prior research and hear firsthand what it was like to lead a nationwide, publicly funded clinical trial across Brazil. This episode dives deep into innovation, equity, and the future of heart care. In this interview, Drs. Joseph Marine and André Zimerman discuss “PhysioSync-HF: Conduction System vs. Biventricular Pacing in Cardiac Resynchronization in HFrEF”.
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DAPT-SHOCK-AMI Trial: Cangrelor in Cardiogenic Shock
10/14/2025
DAPT-SHOCK-AMI Trial: Cangrelor in Cardiogenic Shock
The DAPT SHOCK AMI trial is the first major study to evaluate antiplatelet therapy specifically in patients with cardiogenic shock (CS) following acute myocardial infarction (AMI). It compares initial treatment strategies using cangrelor versus crushed ticagrelor. Early and potent platelet inhibition is critical for restoring microvascular reperfusion in this high-risk population. Previous randomized trials have excluded these patients, leaving a gap in evidence for optimal antiplatelet management in AMI-CS. In this interview, Drs. Dipti Itchhaporia and Zuzana Motovska discuss “DAPT-SHOCK-AMI Trial: Cangrelor in Cardiogenic Shock”.
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ODYSSEY-HCM: Mavacamten in nHCM
10/07/2025
ODYSSEY-HCM: Mavacamten in nHCM
The ODYSSEY-HCM trial found that mavacamten did not significantly improve exercise capacity or patient-reported outcomes in individuals with symptomatic nonobstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Safety concerns emerged, including more frequent reductions in ejection fraction and treatment interruptions among those receiving mavacamten. The trial's limited diversity and short duration raise questions about the generalizability and long-term implications of the findings. Despite the lack of approved therapies for this patient group, the study underscores the complexity of using surrogate endpoints and the need for deeper exploration into disease mechanisms and treatment response. In this interview, Matthew Martinez MD, FACC and Milind Y. Desai, MD, MBA, FACC discuss “ODYSSEY-HCM: Mavacamten in nHCM.” Podcasts |
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DAN-RSV: RSVpreF Vaccine for Preventing Cardiorespiratory Hospitalizations
09/30/2025
DAN-RSV: RSVpreF Vaccine for Preventing Cardiorespiratory Hospitalizations
The DAN-RSV trial is one of the largest individually randomized studies ever conducted, enrolling over 131,000 participants aged 60 and older to evaluate the effectiveness of the RSVpreF vaccine. Using a pragmatic design with electronic consent and national health registry data, the trial successfully met its primary objective of reducing RSV-related respiratory tract disease hospitalizations. It also achieved all key secondary endpoints, showing favorable outcomes for RSV-related and all-cause respiratory and cardiorespiratory hospitalizations. These results demonstrate the vaccine’s potential to significantly impact public health and inform future RSV vaccine policy. In this interview, Drs. Richard A. Chazal and Tor Biering-Sørensen discuss “DAN-RSV: RSVpreF Vaccine for Preventing Cardiorespiratory Hospitalizations.” Suggested Materials: Tor Biering-Sørensen (2025). Vaccine Effectiveness of a Bivalent RSV Prefusion F Protein-Based Vaccine for Preventing RSV Hospitalizations in Older Adults (DAN-RSV) (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT06684743). Retrieved from . Podcasts |
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The Role of Prevention During and After Reproduction
09/23/2025
The Role of Prevention During and After Reproduction
Adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs), affecting up to 20% of pregnancies, serve as early indicators of a woman’s future cardiovascular risk and should be treated as critical markers in preventive care. Pregnancy offers a unique opportunity—a “window”—to identify and address cardiovascular vulnerabilities, making routine screening for heart health essential at every clinical encounter. Long-term monitoring beyond the postpartum period is vital, as cardiovascular risks persist and evolve over time. Improving women’s heart health requires a collaborative, lifelong approach across specialties, integrating cardiology with obstetrics and primary care. This comprehensive strategy ensures that prevention remains central during and after reproduction. In this interview, Drs. Alison L. Bailey, MD, FACC and Ijeoma Isiadinso, MD, FACC discuss “The Role of Prevention During & After Reproduction”. Podcasts |
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The Role of Imaging in Cardiovascular Prevention
09/16/2025
The Role of Imaging in Cardiovascular Prevention
Cohort studies have provided robust data on cardiovascular risk factors, forming the basis for predictive models like the Pooled Cohort Equations and PREVENT. Clinical trials confirm that treating these risk factors effectively reduces cardiovascular events. Over the past 50 years, age-adjusted mortality from acute myocardial infarction has dropped by 89%, reflecting major progress. To advance further, we must consider integrating imaging to identify those at highest risk, using risk factors to guide treatment decisions. This dual approach could enhance precision and improve outcomes in cardiovascular prevention. In this interview, Drs. Alison L. Bailey and David J. Maron discuss “The Role of Imaging in Cardiovascular Prevention”.
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Improving Cardiovascular Clinical Competencies Menopausal Transition
09/09/2025
Improving Cardiovascular Clinical Competencies Menopausal Transition
The menopause transition marks a pivotal period of cardiometabolic change that significantly elevates cardiovascular (CV) risk in women. Despite its clinical importance, this phase remains underrecognized in CV risk assessment, contributing to a profound knowledge gap. Enhancing clinician education and fostering multidisciplinary collaboration are essential to delivering individualized care that addresses both symptom burden and long-term CV outcomes. By prioritizing this life stage, we can improve prevention strategies and reduce the overall burden of cardiovascular disease in women. In this interview, Drs. Alison L. Bailey and Lily Dastmalchi discuss “Improving Cardiovascular Clinical Competencies for Menopausal Transition”. Podcasts |
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Behind the 2025 ACC/AHA Acute Coronary Syndrome Guideline
09/02/2025
Behind the 2025 ACC/AHA Acute Coronary Syndrome Guideline
The 2025 ACC/AHA Acute Coronary Syndrome guideline is the first major update since 2013, incorporating a decade of new evidence and clinical insights. The writing committee stayed on track and on time, reaching consensus on key recommendations, including checklist-based Class I and II interventions before discharge. They thoughtfully addressed legacy practices and controversial studies to ensure clarity and relevance. While some emerging data didn’t meet the threshold for formal inclusion, areas like discharge antiplatelet therapy, coronary imaging, and mechanical support devices were flagged as important for clinicians to monitor. The result is a practical, evidence-based tool to guide bedside decision-making. In this interview, Drs. Roxana Mehran and Sunil V. Rao take listeners “Behind the 2025 Acute Coronary Syndrome Guidelines.” Podcasts |
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Top Takeaways From the 2025 ACC/AHA Acute Coronary Syndrome Guideline
08/26/2025
Top Takeaways From the 2025 ACC/AHA Acute Coronary Syndrome Guideline
The 2025 ACC/AHA Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) Guideline clarifies diagnostic distinctions using electrocardiogram changes, troponin levels, and imaging tools such as coronary CT angiography and echocardiography in the emergency setting. Updates in lipid-lowering strategies and antiplatelet therapy reflect a more personalized approach to risk reduction and long-term care. These recommendations aim to streamline acute decision-making and improve outcomes across the ACS spectrum. In this interview, Drs. Sidney C. Smith Jr. and Michelle L. O'Donoghue discuss “Top Takeaways From the 2025 ACC/AHA Acute Coronary Syndrome Guideline.” Podcasts | |
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Risk vs. Benefit in Chronic Total Occlusion Revascularization
08/19/2025
Risk vs. Benefit in Chronic Total Occlusion Revascularization
Chronic Total Occlusion Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (CTO PCI) is a procedure used to open coronary arteries that have been completely blocked for an extended period. It offers benefits like reduced angina and improved quality of life but carries risks such as vessel injury, heart attack, and procedural failure. Before considering CTO PCI, physicians typically optimize patients on anti-anginal medications—such as beta-blockers, nitrates, and calcium channel blockers—to manage symptoms and evaluate the need for intervention. In this interview, Drs. Anthony N. DeMaria and Lindsey Cilia examine “Risk versus Benefit in Chronic Total Occlusion Revascularization.” Podcasts |
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LAAO vs. DOAC for Stroke Prevention in AFib
08/12/2025
LAAO vs. DOAC for Stroke Prevention in AFib
While blood thinners like warfarin and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) remain the standard for stroke prophylaxis, left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) devices offer a non-pharmacologic alternative for patients at high bleeding risk. Recent trials have shown that LAAO can be as effective as anticoagulants in preventing stroke and may be a viable option, especially for patients who cannot tolerate long-term anticoagulation. In this interview, Drs. Anthony N. DeMaria and Dhanunjaya Lakkireddy explore the evolving landscape of stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation, focusing on the comparison between traditional blood thinners and LAAO. Podcasts |
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Why Are They Still Dyspneic? Post PE Syndrome Workup and Management
08/05/2025
Why Are They Still Dyspneic? Post PE Syndrome Workup and Management
Persistent symptoms after an acute pulmonary embolism (PE) may indicate post-pulmonary embolism syndrome (PPES), a condition affecting up to 50% of patients. The most important consideration in managing PPES is to carefully evaluate and differentiate it from other potential causes of ongoing shortness of breath, particularly chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH), which requires targeted treatment. How can clinicians best differentiate between PPES and other causes of persistent symptoms following an acute PE? In this interview, Drs. Dipti Itchhaporia and Paul R. Forfia discuss “Why Are They Still Dyspneic? Post PE Syndrome Workup and Management.” Podcasts|
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Palliative Care Across the Spectrum of Biological Age in Heart Failure
07/29/2025
Palliative Care Across the Spectrum of Biological Age in Heart Failure
Palliative care supports heart failure patients by guiding complex medical decisions, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life. Despite being a guideline-recommended therapy, it remains underused—referrals are 45% lower for heart failure patients than for cancer patients with similar prognoses. Collaboration between cardiology and palliative care teams ensures that patients and caregivers receive goal-aligned care and the best possible quality of life. In this interview, Dr. Mary Norine Walsh and Ms. Jill A. Patton explore how palliative care can help patients across the span of their illness. Related References: 1. Chuzi S, Saylor MA, Allen LA, et al. Integration of Palliative Care into Heart Failure Care: Consensus-Based Recommendations from the Heart Failure Society of America. J Card Fail. 2025;31(3):559-573. doi:10.1016/j.cardfail.2024.10.435 2. Gelfman LP, Blum M, Ogunniyi MO, McIlvennan CK, Kavalieratos D, Allen LA. Palliative Care Across the Spectrum of Heart Failure. JACC Heart Fail. 2024;12(6):973-989. doi:10.1016/j.jchf.2024.01.010 Podcasts |
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ACCEL Lite: Hypertension Diagnosis and Management: Renal Denervation and Newer Agents on the Horizon
07/22/2025
ACCEL Lite: Hypertension Diagnosis and Management: Renal Denervation and Newer Agents on the Horizon
Recent clinical trials demonstrate that intensive blood pressure lowering—targeting systolic levels below 120 mm Hg—can significantly reduce cardiovascular events and mortality, even among older adults, individuals with diabetes, and those with chronic kidney disease. This challenges the long-standing belief that looser blood pressure targets are safer for older patients, showing instead that with proper monitoring, tighter control offers substantial net benefits for most high-risk groups. In this interview, Dr. Alison L. Bailey and Dr. Keith C. Ferdinand explore the evolving landscape of hypertension management, highlighting new evidence supporting the benefits of tight blood pressure control across diverse populations. Suggested Materials: 1. Liu J, Li Y, Ge J, et al. Lowering systolic blood pressure to less than 120 mm Hg versus less than 140 mm Hg in patients with high cardiovascular risk with and without diabetes or previous stroke: an open-label, blinded-outcome, randomised trial. Lancet. 2024;404(10449):245-255. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(24)01028-6 2. Bi Y, Li M, Liu Y, et al. Intensive Blood-Pressure Control in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes. N Engl J Med. 2025;392(12):1155-1167. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2412006 3. Reddy TK, Nasser SA, Pulapaka AV, Gistand CM, Ferdinand KC. Tackling the Disproportionate Burden of Resistant Hypertension in US Black Adults. Curr Cardiol Rep. 2024;26(11):1163-1171. doi:10.1007/s11886-024-02115-5 Podcasts |
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What's the Best Time to Revascularize the Non-culprit Lesions in MVD
07/15/2025
What's the Best Time to Revascularize the Non-culprit Lesions in MVD
Rapid emergency medical services transport to a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)-capable hospital is critical for timely intervention and management of life-threatening arrhythmias in ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients. Upon emergency room arrival, immediate transfer to the cath lab is essential to restore perfusion and improve both short- and long-term cardiovascular outcomes, as recommended by clinical guidelines. Interventional cardiologists must also be adept at managing culprit lesions in multivessel disease (MVD) and addressing complications like the no-reflow phenomenon during PCI. In this interview, Drs. Dipti Itchhaporia and Nabil Farag discuss “What's the Best Time to Revascularize the Non-culprit Lesions in MVD.” Suggested Materials: Byrne RA, Rossello X, Coughlan JJ, et al. 2023 ESC Guidelines for the management of acute coronary syndromes [published correction appears in Eur Heart J. 2024 Apr 1;45(13):1145. doi: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehad870.]. Eur Heart J. 2023;44(38):3720-3826. doi:10.1093/eurheartj/ehad191 Mehta SR, Wood DA, Meeks B, et al. Design and rationale of the COMPLETE trial: A randomized, comparative effectiveness study of complete versus culprit-only percutaneous coronary intervention to treat multivessel coronary artery disease in patients presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Am Heart J. 2019;215:157-166. doi:10.1016/j.ahj.2019.06.006 Podcasts |
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Putting it All Together: Cardiogenic Shock Management in 2025
07/08/2025
Putting it All Together: Cardiogenic Shock Management in 2025
Cardiogenic shock remains a critical, time-sensitive emergency with a high mortality rate. However, recent advances—particularly multidisciplinary, team-based strategies—have shown promise in improving patient outcomes. With the release of the , clinicians now have access to a streamlined, evidence-informed roadmap for early recognition, rapid stabilization, and escalation of care. In this episode, Drs. Glenn A. Hirsch and Shashank S. Sinha explore the latest strategies in cardiogenic shock management in 2025, emphasizing the how the new guidance integrates clinical decision-making tools and highlighting the role of shock teams and regional partnerships in optimizing care delivery. SUGGESTED MATERIALS: Sinha SS, Geller BJ, Katz JN, et al; American Heart Association Acute Cardiac Care and General Cardiology Committee of the Council on Clinical Cardiology; Council on Cardiopulmonary, Critical Care, Perioperative and Resuscitation; Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing; and Council on Kidney in Cardiovascular Disease. Evolution of Critical Care Cardiology: An Update on Structure, Care Delivery, Training, and Research Paradigms: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2025 Feb 13. doi: 10.1161/CIR.0000000000001300. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39945062. Hall EJ, Agarwal S, Cullum CM, Sinha SS, Ely EW, Farr MA. Survivorship After Cardiogenic Shock. Circulation. 2025 Jan 21;151(3):257-271. doi: 10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.124.068203. Epub 2025 Jan 21. PMID: 39836757. Ton VK, Li S, John K, et al. Serial Shock Severity Assessment Within 72 Hours After Diagnosis: A Cardiogenic Shock Working Group Report. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2024 Aug 1:S0735-1097(24)07740-4. doi: 10.1016/j.jacc.2024.04.069. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39217545. Podcasts |
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Hemodynamic Assessment for Diagnosis and Treatment Selection in HFpEF
07/01/2025
Hemodynamic Assessment for Diagnosis and Treatment Selection in HFpEF
Heart failure arises when the heart is unable to pump or fill with blood effectively. In the cardiac catheterization lab, we have the unique ability to directly measure the physiological abnormalities underlying this condition, making it the gold standard for diagnosing heart failure. While not every patient requires heart catheterization, it is often essential for those with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). This is because noninvasive tests, which are commonly used, frequently fall short—providing false reassurance and leading to missed diagnoses. As a result, HFpEF remains underrecognized. And ultimately, a condition that goes unrecognized cannot be properly treated. In this interview, Drs. Matthew Martinez and Barry Borlaug discuss “Hemodynamic Assessment for Diagnosis and Treatment Selection in HFpEF.” Podcasts |
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Primary Results From the SOUL Randomized Trial
06/24/2025
Primary Results From the SOUL Randomized Trial
The SOUL trial demonstrated that in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), chronic kidney disease (CKD), or both, treatment with oral semaglutide significantly reduced the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) compared to placebo—without an increase in serious adverse events. These findings position oral semaglutide as a compelling option with cardiovascular benefits consistent with those seen in injectable GLP-1 receptor agonists. In this episode, Drs. Deepak L. Bhatt and Darren K. McGuire explore how the SOUL trial further strengthens the favorable risk-benefit profile of oral semaglutide for patients with T2DM and coexisting ASCVD and/or CKD, highlighting its potential to reshape cardiovascular risk management in this high-risk population. SUGGESTED MATERIALS McGuire DK, Marx N, Mulvagh SL, et al.; SOUL Study Group. Oral Semaglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes in High-Risk Type 2 Diabetes. N Engl J Med. 2025 Mar 29. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2501006. Epub ahead of print. Podcasts |
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Clopidogrel Versus Aspirin For Long-term Maintenance Monotherapy In Patients With High Ischemic Risk After PCI
06/17/2025
Clopidogrel Versus Aspirin For Long-term Maintenance Monotherapy In Patients With High Ischemic Risk After PCI
The SMART-CHOICE 3 trial demonstrated that clopidogrel monotherapy is more effective than aspirin monotherapy in reducing the risk of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events in high-risk patients who completed standard dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Despite concerns that more potent antiplatelet agents may increase bleeding risk, the study found that clopidogrel significantly reduced ischemic events—including myocardial infarction and all-cause death—without increasing bleeding risk, making it a highly favorable option for long-term maintenance therapy. In this episode, Drs. Allen J. Taylor and Joo-Yong Hahn discuss the clinical implications of these findings and offer insights into selecting the optimal single antiplatelet regimen after PCI. SUGGESTED MATERIALS Choi H, Park H, Lee JY, et al. Efficacy and safety of clopidogrel versus aspirin monotherapy in patients at high risk of subsequent cardiovascular event after percutaneous coronary intervention (SMART-CHOICE 3): a randomised, open-label, multicentre trial. Lancet. 2025;405(10486):1252-63. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(25)00449-0. Koo BK, Kang J, Park KW, et al.; HOST-EXAM investigators. Aspirin versus clopidogrel for chronic maintenance monotherapy after percutaneous coronary intervention (HOST-EXAM): an investigator-initiated, prospective, randomised, open-label, multicentre trial. Lancet. 2021;397(10293):2487-2496. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(21)01063-1. Podcasts |
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Dapagliflozin in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation
06/10/2025
Dapagliflozin in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation
The DapaTAVI trial, conducted across 39 centers in Spain, is the first study to evaluate the use of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors, specifically dapagliflozin, in patients with heart failure undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). The trial found that patients who received dapagliflozin (10 mg daily) within 14 days of hospital discharge after TAVI experienced a 28% relative risk reduction in the composite outcome of all-cause mortality or worsening heart failure at one year, compared to those receiving standard care In this episode, Drs. Allen J. Taylor and Sergio Raposeiras Roubin discuss the safety and clinical benefits of initiating dapagliflozin—or other SGLT-2 inhibitors—in patients undergoing TAVI who are at risk for heart failure, emphasizing its potential to improve outcomes in this high-risk population. SUGGESTED MATERIALS Podcasts | Subscribe to ACCEL
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PRAGUE-25 Trial: Catheter Ablation Versus Antiarrhythmic Drugs With Risk Factor Modification for Treatment of AF
06/03/2025
PRAGUE-25 Trial: Catheter Ablation Versus Antiarrhythmic Drugs With Risk Factor Modification for Treatment of AF
The PRAGUE-25 study evaluated the effectiveness of two treatment strategies in patients with both atrial fibrillation (AF) and obesity: catheter ablation versus lifestyle modification (including weight loss and increased physical activity) combined with antiarrhythmic drug therapy. While motivated patients who adhered to lifestyle changes experienced a reduction in AF episodes, the study found that catheter ablation was significantly more effective in achieving and maintaining sinus rhythm. In this episode, Drs. Joseph Marine and Pavel Osmancik discuss the trial’s findings, highlighting that catheter ablation outperformed lifestyle modification and medication in restoring and sustaining normal heart rhythm. SUGGESTED MATERIALS Osmancik P, Havránek Š, Bulková V, et al. Catheter ablation versus antiarrhythmic drugs with risk factor modification for treatment of atrial fibrillation: a protocol of a randomised controlled trial (PRAGUE-25 trial). BMJ Open. 2022 Jun 15;12(6):e056522. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-056522. Pathak RK, Middeldorp ME, Meredith M, Mehta AB, Mahajan R, Wong CX, Twomey D, Elliott AD, Kalman JM, Abhayaratna WP, Lau DH, Sanders P. Long-Term Effect of Goal-Directed Weight Management in an Atrial Fibrillation Cohort: A Long-Term Follow-Up Study (LEGACY). J Am Coll Cardiol. 2015 May 26;65(20):2159-69. doi: 10.1016/j.jacc.2015.03.002. Podcasts |
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Lifetime Benefit by Control of Modifiable Risk Factors
05/27/2025
Lifetime Benefit by Control of Modifiable Risk Factors
A Global Cardiovascular Risk Consortium study of nearly 2 million people worldwide found that avoiding five modifiable risk factors—hypertension, hyperlipidemia, abnormal weight, diabetes, and smoking—by age 50 added over a decade of life expectancy for both sexes. Midlife control of systolic blood pressure and smoking yielded the greatest global gains. In this interview, Drs. Roger S. Blumenthal and Christina Magnussen discuss how this landmark study moves beyond a predominantly North American and European focus, translating abstract risk factors into tangible years of healthy life for patients. SUGGESTED MATERIALS The Global Cardiovascular Risk Consortium. Global effect of cardiovascular risk factors on lifetime estimates. NEJM. Published online March 30, 2025. Doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2415879 Podcasts |
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ZENITH Phase 3 Trial: Sotatercept in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension With High Mortality Risk
05/20/2025
ZENITH Phase 3 Trial: Sotatercept in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension With High Mortality Risk
The ZENITH trial evaluated sotatercept, an activin signaling inhibitor, in patients with advanced pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) at high risk of death. Sotatercept met its primary endpoint—time to first morbidity or mortality event—prompting an independent data monitoring committee to recommend early trial termination and offer the drug to all participants. In this interview, Drs. Allen J. Taylor and Marc Humbert discuss how ZENITH highlights sotatercept’s clinical benefit even in the sickest PAH patients, offering renewed hope for a disease long seen as unrelenting. SUGGESTED MATERIALS 1. Humbert M, McLaughlin VV, Badesch DB, et al., for the ZENITH Trial Investigators. Sotatercept in Patients With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension at High Risk for Death. . 2. Hoeper MM, Badesch DB, Ghofrani HA, et al.; STELLAR Trial Investigators. Phase 3 trial of sotatercept for treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension. N Engl J Med 2023;388:1478-90. 3. Humbert M, McLaughlin V, Gibbs JSR, et al.; PULSAR Trial Investigators. Sotatercept for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension. N Engl J Med 2021;384:1204-15. Podcasts |
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Cardiac Arrest During Long-Distance Running Races: 2010-2023
05/13/2025
Cardiac Arrest During Long-Distance Running Races: 2010-2023
The “Cardiac Arrest During Long-Distance Running Races: 2010–2023” study analyzed the incidence and outcomes of sudden cardiac arrests (SCAs) occurring during marathons and half-marathons in the United States. Known as the RACER2 study, it serves as a follow-up to the original RACER1 study, which covered the years 2000–2009. In this episode, Drs. Jonathan H. Kim and Aaron L. Baggish discussed the study findings, emphasizing the importance of continued vigilance and preparedness to further reduce the risk of fatal outcomes during endurance events. SUGGESTED MATERIALS 1. Kim JH, Rim AJ, Miller JT, et al. Cardiac Arrest During Long-Distance Running Races. JAMA. Published online March 30, 2025. doi:10.1001/jama.2025.3026. 2. Kim JH, Malhotra R, Chiampas G, d'Hemecourt P, Troyanos C, Cianca J, Smith RN, Wang TJ, Roberts WO, Thompson PD, Baggish AL; Race Associated Cardiac Arrest Event Registry (RACER) Study Group. Cardiac arrest during long-distance running races. N Engl J Med. 2012;366:130-40. Podcasts |
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WARRIOR Trial: Outcomes to Reduce Events in Non-Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease
05/06/2025
WARRIOR Trial: Outcomes to Reduce Events in Non-Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease
Funded by the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP) of the Department of Defense, the WARRIOR (Women's IschemiA TRial to Reduce events In non-ObstRuctive CAD) Trial addresses the urgent need for evidence-based care in a growing population of patients—particularly women—experiencing ischemia without obstructive coronary artery disease (INOCA). This clinical strategy trial compares optimal medical therapy with usual care in women with angina but no significant coronary blockages. In this episode, Drs. Nanette Kass Wenger and Noel Bairey Merz discuss the trial’s design, enrollment progress, follow-up strategies, and the primary and secondary outcomes that could reshape cardiovascular care for women. Podcasts ||
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STRIDE Trial: Effects of Semaglutide in Patients With Peripheral Artery Disease
04/29/2025
STRIDE Trial: Effects of Semaglutide in Patients With Peripheral Artery Disease
Patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) often experience significant walking difficulties, and there are limited therapies available to improve their mobility. Investigation made through the STRIDE (Effects of Semaglutide on Functional Capacity in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes and Peripheral Arterial Disease) trial focused on semaglutide, a drug known for promoting weight loss, reducing inflammation, and lowering the risk of heart attack or stroke, to determine if it could enhance the functional abilities of PAD patients. In this interview, Drs. Alison Bailey and Marc Bonaca discuss how the STRIDE trial data supports the use of semaglutide for individuals with PAD and type 2 diabetes, highlighting its cardiometabolic, cardiovascular, and kidney benefits, as well as its ability to improve function, symptoms, and overall quality of life. Podcasts |
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