Navigating News and Updates in Cardiology at AHA 24, with Viet Le, PA-C, DMSc

At the American Heart Association (AHA) Annual Scientific Sessions 2024, the cardiology community welcomed several new trials and updates across the spectrum of cardiovascular disease, from arrhythmias to heart failure to hypertension and everything in between.

As part of our on-site coverage of AHA 24, the editorial team of HCPLive Cardiology caught up with advisory board Viet Le, PA-C, DMSc, an associate professor of research and a preventive cardiology PA at Intermountain Health. In the video above, Le, who is also the immediate past president of the Academy of Physician Associates in Cardiology (APAC), talks about 5 key updates he felt were most pertinent for practicing clinicians to be aware of from the first 2 days of the meeting.

First, Le highlights the BPROAD trial, which reaffirmed the need for intensive blood pressure targets, particularly in patients with diabetes. Results from this Chinese population study demonstrated lowering systolic blood pressure to <120 mmHg significantly reduced cardiovascular events without increasing hypotension risk relative to a target of <150 mmHg.¹

Next, he highlights the OPTION trial, which compared LAAC with the WATCHMAN FLX device against DOACs. Results of the trial found the device was noninferior for stroke prevention while reducing bleeding risk, offering a valuable alternative for patients intolerant to anticoagulants.²

Le calls particular attention to the VANISH2 trial, which found use of catheter ablation in ventricular tachycardia (VT) reduced VT events and shocks—something Le expects could have a profound impact on the quality of life for patients.³

Lastly, Le calls attention to a pair of updates related to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in care. At the meeting, AI's utility in echocardiography was explored through studies demonstrating its ability to enhance diagnostic workflows. While Le cautions this technology may not be ready for autonomous use, these advancements highlight its potential to streamline processes and enhance precision in cardiovascular imaging.

Relevant disclosures for Le include Novartis, Pfizer, Amgen, and Janssen.

References:

1. Ning G, Wang W, He J, Bi Y, et al. Effects of Intensive Blood Pressure Control in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes. Presented at the American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions 2024. Chicago, Illinois. November 16-18, 2024.
2. Wazni OM. Randomized Comparison of Left Atrial Appendage Closure with Oral Anticoagulation after Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation. Paper presented at: American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2024; November 15 - 18; Chicago, Il. Accessed November 16, 2024.
3. Sapp JL, Tang ASL, Stevenson WG, et al. Catheter Ablation or Antiarrhythmic Drugs for Ventricular Tachycardia. The New England Journal of Medicine. Published November 16, 2024. Accessed November 16, 2024.