Top stories in cardiology: FDA approves ablation catheter, aspirin decreases CV risk while increasing risk for major bleeding

Among the top cardiology stories last week were the FDA approval of an ablation catheter for the treatment of patients with atrial fibrillation and a study that found aspirin increased the risk for major bleeding while decreasing the risk for CV events in patients without CVD.

Other highlights include findings that suggested changing thyroid activity may help prevent atrial fibrillation, a study that found moderate alcohol consumption was a modifiable risk factor for atrial fibrillation and the American College of Cardiology’s announcement of late-breaking clinical trials that will be presented at its 2019 scientific sessions.

FDA approves ablation catheter for atrial fibrillation

Abbott announced that an ablation catheter for the treatment of patients with atrial fibrillation has been approved by the FDA. Read more.

Aspirin increases risk for major bleeding, decreases CV risk in those without CVD

Patients without CVD who took aspirin had a decreased risk for CV events and an increased risk for major bleeding, according to a meta-analysis published in JAMA. Read more.

Studies refine relationship between atrial fibrillation , thyroid conditions

Modifications in thyroid activity may be an effective strategy in preventing atrial fibrillation, according to two studies published in JAMA Cardiology. Read more.

Moderate alcohol consumption increases risk for atrial fibrillation

Regular moderate alcohol intake was a modifiable risk factor for atrial fibrillation that was linked to conduction slowing and lower atrial voltage, according to a study published in HeartRhythm. Read more.

American College of Cardiology late-breaking clinical trials announced

The American College of Cardiology announced the late-breaking clinical trials that are scheduled to be presented at its 2019 Scientific Session. Read more.