The POTTER AF registry looked at oesophageal fistula formation following atrial fibrillation ablation, with focus on the real world incidence, characteristics, optimal management and patient outcomes. In this touchCARDIO interview, we speak with Professor Roland Tilz (University Heart Center Lübeck, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany) to discuss the results of the POTTER AF registry and […]

The AdaptResponse trial was designed to assess two methods of restoring resynchronization to the heart in patients with heart failure with left bundle branch block. In this touchCARDIO interview, we speak with Dr Bruce Wilkoff (Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA) to discuss the design of the AdaptResponse trial, the outcomes as well as the clinical […]

Recently it has been shown that NT-proBNP may be a useful tool for finding people with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation and stroke. In this touchCARDIO interview, we speak with Dr Søren Zöga Diederichsen (Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark) to discuss the post hoc analysis of the LOOP study. The abstract entitled ‘Atrial […]

The OptiVALL study aimed to assess the atrioventricular synchronous pacing capabilities of the Micra AV device, and to describe what programming changes are needed. In this touchCARDIO interview, we speak with Dr Sem Briongos Figuero (Hospital Infanta Leonor, Madrid, Spain) to discuss the purpose, design and findings of the OptiVALL study, as well as the […]

Palliative care (PC) is recommended as a standard of practice for all patients with heart failure (HF) and is supported by evidence of improved patient outcomes (e.g. reduction in symptoms refractory to cardiovascular therapies and improved shared decision-making).1 PC also addresses the persistent disparity in care experienced by patients from disenfranchised groups.2 PC is often a consultative […]

Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is an important cause of intrusive palpitation symptoms. This expert interview explores a nurse-led end-to-end pathway for the diagnosis, assessment and management of this condition. It was conducted at the Barts Heart Centre of Barts Health NHS Trust in the UK. Q. What are the current challenges and unmet clinical needs in supraventricular […]

The prevalence of aortic stenosis (AS) has grown over the last few decades, as life expectancy has increased. AS is the most common valvular disease in the developed world and is found in up to 9.8% of individuals aged ≥75.1–3 The wide range of ages, and the wide variability in the general health status in the […]

A significant proportion of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who have a high stroke risk are currently being treated with oral anticoagulation (OAC), including direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) and vitamin K inhibitors (VKAs).1 It is well known that the increased risk of thromboembolic stroke in patients with AF is primarily due to left atrial appendage (LAA) […]