Effects of Social Isolation and Loneliness on the Heart Guest: Amir Lerman, M.D. Host: Stephen L. Kopecky, M.D. Social isolation and loneliness are common, mainly in the elderly, and are regarded as major cardiovascular risk factors. The factors are associated with an increase in cardiovascular events and mortality. Additionally, social isolation and loneliness are associated with increased systemic inflammation and progression of atherosclerosis Topics Discussed: How do you identify social isol...
Sep 30, 2025•16 min•Ep. 217
Ischemia with No Obstructive Arteries (INOCA) in 2024 Guest: Claire Raphael, M.B.B.S., Ph.D. Host: Sharonne Hayes, M.D. INOCA is a common condition. It is an acronym that stands for ischemia with non-obstructive coronary artery disease. We discuss when to consider a diagnosis of INOCA, how to diagnose it and how to treat patients. Topics Discussed: What is INOCA? Who is at risk for INOCA? How do we manage INOCA? Connect with Mayo Clinic's Cardiovascular Continuing Medical Education online at htt...
Sep 23, 2025•15 min•Ep. 229
Statin Myopathy Guest: Stephen Kopecky, M.D. Host: Sharonne Hayes, M.D. Statins are very helpful to lower LDL cholesterol and subsequently lower cardiovascular risk. Studies of statins have excluded subjects that are statin intolerant which is usually due to muscle symptoms such as aches, called myalgias, muscle cramps, or weakness. One of the most significant predictors of statin intolerance is the dose -the higher the dose, the more likely to develop intolerance. Accepted in recommended ways t...
Sep 16, 2025•11 min•Ep. 222
Recent Updates in AF Guidelines Guest: Christopher DeSimone, M.D., Ph.D. Guest: Abhishek Deshmukh, M.B.B.S. Host: Anthony H. Kashou, M.D. There have been several recent publications from major societies (ACC/HRS/EHRA/ESC) regarding atrial fibrillation management updates. These include updates to treatment interventions in patients with AFib such as catheter ablation, medical therapy, heart failure, and timing of intervention. Topics Discussed: What are the new recommendations on catheter ablatio...
Sep 09, 2025•20 min•Ep. 235
Patient Selection and the Role of Echo Imaging for Tricuspid Structural Heart Procedures Guest: Jeremy Thaden, M.D. Host: Paul Friedman, M.D. This podcast will give an overview of the growth of transcatheter structural heart procedures in recent years and the co-evolution of structural heart imaging (echocardiography) for patient selection and guidance. Topics Discussed: Mayo’s experience with transcatheter structural heart procedures How has echo imaging evolved to facilitate guidance of struct...
Sep 02, 2025•26 min•Ep. 228
What is ECG Age Vs. Chronological age, and How to Use it in Your CV Prevention Practice Guest: Francisco Lopez-Jimenez, M.D., M.S. Host: Stephen L. Kopecky, M.D. After listening to this episode of the CV Prevention segment of Mayo Clinic’s podcast “Interviews with the Experts,” listeners will better understand why it is important to differentiate between biological and chronological age. This is something that may help identify increased risk for age-related conditions and factors that may adver...
Aug 26, 2025•16 min•Ep. 216
Robotic Cardiac Surgery Guest: Phillip Rowse, M.D. Guest: Marty Unruh, APRN, C.N.P., D.N.P. Host: Kyle Klarich, M.D. In this episode of “Interviews With the Experts,” listeners will hear a discussion on the most important questions patients should ask as they consider whether or not to pursue a robotic-assisted approach for surgical treatment of their valvular heart disease. It is clarified how robotic heart surgery works, including associated risks, benefits, and misconceptions. And finally, th...
Aug 19, 2025•31 min•Ep. 226
Anticoagulation with AF and Cancer Guest: Nicholas Tan, M.D., M.S. Host: Anthony H. Kashou, M.D. In today’s episode of ECG Making Waves, Dr. Anthony Kashou interviews Dr. Nicholas Tan on how to manage anticoagulation in patients with cancer. They discuss the importance of appreciating the challenging balance in managing stroke risk in patients with cancer and atrial fibrillation. After listening to this episode, listeners will understand alternative strategies for stroke prevention in addition t...
Aug 12, 2025•10 min•Ep. 234
Ceramide Risk Score: How to Incorporate it Into Your CV Prevention Practice Guest: Vlad Vasile, M.D., Ph.D. Host: Stephen L. Kopecky, M.D. Ceramides score is a blood test used to assess the risk of heart attacks and stroke. Most patients evaluated for cardiovascular risk benefit from this test, particularly patients deemed at intermediate risk by other assessments. Score is reported as numbers: the higher the score, the higher the risk. Ceramides score is reproducible and modifiable with lifesty...
Aug 05, 2025•13 min•Ep. 219
CT Scan for Coronary Artery Calcification Window Guest: Thomas C. Gerber, M.D., Ph.D. Host: Stephen L. Kopecky, M.D. Coronary artery calcification (CAC) scanning can help improving our assessment of the risk of heart attack or stroke in thoughtfully selected patients. Not everyone needs a CAC scan! The results of a CAC scan can be particularly helpful in deciding whether a patient should start medications to reduce their risk. Coronary artery calcium scanning is *not* used to follow a patient’s ...
Jul 29, 2025•19 min•Ep. 208
Management of Postoperative Pericarditis. Guest: Melissa Erdman, P.A.-C. Guest: Juan Crestanello, M.D. Host: Sharonne Hayes, M.D. In this podcast, Mayo Clinic experts explore the complexities of diagnosing and managing postoperative pericarditis, a condition that presents unique challenges compared to other forms of pericarditis. The discussion delves into how this complication differs in presentation and progression, outlines current treatment approaches used in clinical practice, and examines ...
Jul 22, 2025•15 min•Ep. 225
How a Years Worth of Experience of PFA for AF has Revolutionized My Practice Guest: Christopher DeSimone, M.D., Ph.D. Guest: Abhishek Deshmukh, M.B.B.S. Host: Anthony H. Kashou, M.D. Patients most commonly have undergone traditional catheter ablation for AF via a thermal energy source. A newer energy modality is called Pulsed Field Ablation – using very high energy pulsation of strong voltages to destroy tissue responsible for AF. At Mayo Clinic, we have significant expertise in using this techn...
Jul 15, 2025•18 min•Ep. 233
Lipoprotein (a) Elevation: What Does it do to CV Risk and What do You Need to Know About Treatment Guest: Vlad Vasile, M.D., Ph.D. Host: Stephen L. Kopecky, M.D. Lipoprotein (a) is a blood biomarker that poses independent risk of heart attacks and stroke when elevated. All patients should be screened for this biomarker. Currently, there are no efficient treatments for lipoprotein (a) elevations, but likely the scenery will change as we will have treatments available in the near future. For now, ...
Jul 08, 2025•15 min•Ep. 220
How to Tell Patients about Adding in Intervals to Their Physical Activity Program Guest: Kate Russell, C.E.P. Host: Stephen L. Kopecky, M.D. Intervals are a hugely beneficial addition to any exercise program. As with any exercise topic, finding good information can be difficult and overwhelming. We will discuss how to modify intervals to fit patients of all ages, fitness levels, and limitations Topics Discussed: How do I do intervals if I am unable to run? Should I base my intensity on heart rat...
Jul 01, 2025•12 min•Ep. 206
Role of Thrombophilia Testing in Venous Thromboembolism Guest: Ana Casanegra, M.D., M.S. Host: Kyle Klarich, M.D. Thrombophilia testing identifies inherited or acquired conditions that increase the risk of abnormal blood clotting. Sometimes it can help us guide management decisions for patients, but who and when to test are key questions to address before making this decision. Topics Discussed: What is thrombophilia, what is the difference with hypercoagulable states? Who should consider getting...
Jun 24, 2025•20 min•Ep. 224
Electrophysiology Considerations in Oncology Patients Guest: Nicholas Tan, M.D., M.S. Host: Anthony H. Kashou, M.D. In today’s episode of ECG Making Waves, Dr. Anthony Kashou interviews Dr. Nicholas Tan on how clinicians should consider electrophysiology in the patient with cancer. After listening to this episode, learners will understand the relationship between cancer and heart rhythm disorders, as well as begin to appreciate how cancer and arrhythmia treatments can interact. Topics Discussed:...
Jun 17, 2025•9 min•Ep. 232
Chronic Total Occlusion in 2025 Guest: Gregory Barsness, M.D. Host: Malcolm Bell, M.D. Chronic (>3 months) complete epicardial coronary obstructive lesions, often referred to as CTOs, are recognized in a large minority of those referred for coronary angiography yet historically represent <5% of coronary intervention attempts. Improving tools, techniques and strategies have allowed greater access to percutaneous management of symptomatic coronary disease with improved procedural safety and ...
Jun 10, 2025•19 min•Ep. 209
Supplements for Cardiovascular Prevention Guest: Lisa M. Gilman, APRN, C.N.P. Host: Stephen L. Kopecky, M.D. Supplement use is a growing industry in which patients seek additional potential benefit of reducing disease burden and improving overall health. This presentation will be an overview of supplements used to address cardiovascular disease prevention Topics Discussed: Our patients will often inquire if there are any supplements that would help their heart health. How do you approach this to...
Jun 03, 2025•11 min•Ep. 202
Role of Genetics in the Heart Failure Clinic Guest: Naveen Pereira, M.D. Host: Kyle Klarich, M.D. Genetic testing for heart failure is most beneficial for patients with cardiomyopathies. It aids in personalized treatment, early diagnosis, and family risk assessment, although its uptake has been slow due to costs, access, and interpretation challenges. Ongoing research into genetic mutations and their role in cardiomyopathy pathophysiology could lead to new therapeutic targets and improved diseas...
May 27, 2025•28 min•Ep. 185
Assessing Recurrence Following Pulsed Field Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation Guest: Nicholas Tan, M.D., M.S. Host: Anthony H. Kashou, M.D. Pulsed field ablation has been rapidly adopted across the United States since FDA approval was granted 1 year ago, due to its excellent acute efficacy, favorable safety profile, and fast workflow. However, recurrences post-ablation are comparable to that of previously established modalities, making this a significant hurdle that has yet to be overcome. Change...
May 20, 2025•11 min•Ep. 223
Hybrid Procedures Collaboration with Interventional Cardiology Guest: Jason Anderson, M.D. Guest: Elizabeth Stephens, M.D., Ph.D. Host: Malcolm Bell, M.D. Increasingly, collaboration between interventional cardiology and congenital cardiac surgeons has been used to optimize care for patients with congenital heart disease. Multi-disciplinary care is key, and “hybrid” procedures can be part of that collaboration. Effective use of catheter-procedures can help decrease the number of cardiac operatio...
May 13, 2025•23 min•Ep. 210
Interval Training – What Does the Science Tell Us About the Benefits Versus Continuous Activity Guest: Amanda R. Bonikowske, Ph.D. Host: Stephen L. Kopecky, M.D. Learners will gain insights into the health and fitness benefits of high-intensity interval training (HIIT). They will explore various approaches to HIIT and learn strategies for integrating it into a well-rounded exercise program. Additionally, the podcast will offer a concise overview of current research on the enjoyment of HIIT and h...
May 06, 2025•13 min•Ep. 197
Secrets to Achieving CAD Regression Guest: Stephen Kopecky, M.D. Host: Sharonne Hayes, M.D. Coronary artery disease regression can occur in lipid rich plaque. Calcified and fibrotic plaque are essentially scars and cannot regress; however, they also are not associated with plaque rupture, which can lead to myocardial infarction. Studies with invasive angiography or CT angiography that have shown successful regression of CAD have addressed risk factors including hypertension, smoking, hyperlipide...
Apr 29, 2025•11 min•Ep. 221
Association Between COVID-19 Vaccination and Atrial Arrhythmias in Individuals with Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices Guest: Malini Madhavan, M.B.B.S. Host: Anthony H. Kashou, M.D. In a study of over 7000 individuals with a cardiac implanted device in the Biotronik CERTITUDE registry, the burden of device detected AF was noted to be higher in the 3 months after covid vaccination compared to the 3 months preceding vaccination. A similar trend was observed for Influenza vaccinated individuals...
Apr 22, 2025•15 min•Ep. 212
Updates in Left Atrial Appendage Closure Guest: Ammar Killu, M.B.B.S. Host: Sharonne Hayes, M.D. In today’s episode of “Interviews With the Experts, listeners will learn how to select patients that may benefit from left atrial appendage occlusion. Listeners will understand the major differences between currently available commercial devices. Topics Discussed: What is left atrial appendage closure? Who may benefit from left atrial appendage closure and is there expansion of indications? What devi...
Apr 15, 2025•14 min•Ep. 199
Lifestyle Modification in the Setting of New Prevention Therapies Guest: R. Scott Wright, M.D. Host: Stephen L. Kopecky, M.D. Cardiovascular prevention has largely focused on new pharmaceutical therapies over the past several decades. Often overlooked are the critical roles of diet, exercise, sleep and other individual behaviors which underpin all of preventive measures for improved health. The podcast will discuss how busy clinicians can emphasize and incorporate these measures in their daily p...
Apr 08, 2025•10 min•Ep. 191
Latest Developments in the Treatment of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Guest: Robert P. Frantz, M.D. Host: Kyle Klarich, M.D. Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a serious disease manifested by vasoconstriction and obliteration of the pulmonary arterial vasculature resulting in rise in pulmonary artery pressure and resistance and culminating in right heart failure. Listeners will learn more about traditional treatments for PAH, as well as new anti-proliferative therapies in active clinical...
Apr 01, 2025•19 min•Ep. 198
Exploring New Frontiers in Rhythm Monitoring Technology Guest: Suraj Kapa, M.D. Host: Anthony H. Kashou, M.D. After listening to this podcast, the learners will be able to confidently identify areas of advancement in cardiac rhythm monitoring. Additionally, listeners will learn specific areas of future research around technology to support the future of cardiac rhythm monitoring. Topics Discussed: What is new in technology to advance rhythm monitoring? What role is AI playing in rhythm monitorin...
Mar 25, 2025•14 min•Ep. 211
Updates from the 2024 ESC and AHA Scientific Statements on Cardiac Sarcoidosis Guest: Leslie T. Cooper Jr., M.D. Host: Kyle W. Klarich, M.D. Cardiac sarcoidosis is a systemic, chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by non-caseating, epithelioid cell granulomas that may involve many tissues and organs. The Heart Rhythm Society criteria for diagnosis of cardiac sarcoidosis require a biopsy-proven diagnosis of extra-cardiac sarcoidosis. If extra-cardiac sarcoidosis is confirmed, CS is highly p...
Mar 18, 2025•20 min•Ep. 215
New RNA Therapies for Treatment of ASCVD, Prevention, and Dyslipidemia Guest: R. Scott Wright, M.D. Host: Stephen L. Kopecky, M.D. RNA therapies are growing in number as targeted treatments for dyslipidemia including LDL-c, Lp(a) and Triglycerides. The podcast will explore the science behind these therapies, the evidence for safety and how clinicians can utilize them in their practices. Topics Discussed: What are the new RNA therapies available or soon to be available? How are RNA based therapie...
Mar 11, 2025•12 min•Ep. 194
