Category: Cardiovascular-Cardiology

University of Cincinnati (UC) radiologists have developed a new technique for capturing images of chest veins that eases diagnosis of venous diseases.Multi-detector computed tomography (CT) scanners are traditionally used to create three-dimensional images of arteries, the vessels which carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart and distribute blood throughout the body. Veins, smaller vessels that return blood to the heart, are more difficult to accurately image.

Corazonas Foods, Inc., has announced an exclusive licensing agreement with Brandeis University to utilize its technology in creating several new categories of heart-healthy snacks. Brandeis’s innovative technology allows high levels of plant sterols to be incorporated into snack foods while retaining the product’s outstanding flavor.

A University of Rochester Medical Center researcher has been awarded a National Institutes of Health grant to study whether accounting for social risk factors, in addition to traditional predictors, can be useful in assessing patients’ risk and ultimately preventing coronary heart disease.Kevin A. Fiscella, M.D., M.P.H.

Two US studies suggest that almost as soon as it has been donated, banked human blood loses the vital ability to transfer oxygen to body tissue that desperately needs it. The researchers say that for the majority of patients, blood transfusions with banked human blood could do more harm than good.

OmniSonics Medical Technologies, Inc., a developer of advanced medical devices for use in the treatment of vascular disease, announced that it has received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market its catheter based OmniWave(TM) Endovascular System for the infusion of physician specified fluids, including thrombolytics, and for the removal of thrombus in the peripheral vasculature.

If you are in a close relationship which has negative aspects, such as conflict, you may well have a raised risk of heart disease, compared to somebody whose close relationship has more positive aspects, says an article in Archives of Internal Medicine (JAMA/Archives), October 8th issue. The authors explain “An extensive body of research shows that social relations are associated with better health and reduced risks of cardiovascular disease.

Jean Chretien, former Prime Minister of Canada, 73, had quadruple heart bypass surgery on Wednesday at the Montreal Heart Institute. A hospital spokesperson said he is doing well, and added that the family wished for no further comment on his condition. Chretien had a coronary blockage, surgeons decided to operate before any damage to the heart could happen. He entered hospital on Tuesday and was operated on the following day.