Fasting Before Cardiac Catheterization: Still Necessary? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials.

Background: Fasting before elective or nonurgent coronary angiography is commonly recommended to reduce the risk of adverse events, such as aspiration pneumonia. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the impact of fasting versus nonfasting protocols on patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases for randomized clinical trials comparing fasting and nonfasting states before cardiac catheterization.

[Chronic coronary syndrome in 2025: from atherosclerosis to microcirculation].

Chronic coronary syndrome involves coronary artery and/or microcirculatory dysfunction leading to ischemia, but also includes patients who have previously undergone revascularization. Diagnosis relies on clinical evaluation and non-invasive or invasive tests to differentiate epicardial obstructive coronary artery disease from non-obstructive forms (Angina with Non-Obstructive Coronary Arteries (ANOCA)/Ischemia with Non-Obstructive Coronary Arteries (INOCA)). Management includes risk factor optimization, antianginal therapy, and revascularization when needed.

[Mitral valve regurgitation and heart failure: a dangerous synergy?].

This article explores the relationship between mitral regurgitation and heart failure, a dangerous combination with serious consequences. It reviews the pathophysiological mechanisms and current therapeutic options, ranging from medical treatments to percutaneous approaches, surgical interventions, and advanced modalities such as ventricular assist devices or heart transplantation. Recent studies exploring strategies to break this vicious cycle and improve patient outcomes are also reviewed.

Impact of FFR-CT before coronary angiography on the management of non-culprit lesions among high-risk NSTE-ACS patients.

Recent data suggest that fractional flow reserve derived from coronary computed tomography (FFR-CT) can help select patients with high-risk non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) requiring invasive coronary angiography (ICA). Multiple stenoses are often observed in this population, and while a clear culprit is frequently identified, the management of intermediate lesions remains challenging. The information provided by FFR-CT prior to the ICA could theoretically assist in the management of these lesions.

Aortic Stenosis: Time for a Sex-Based Approach?

Aortic stenosis (AS) is a progressive form of valvular heart disease most commonly associated with aging, with an exponential increase in prevalence after age 50. While men have historically been considered at higher risk, recent studies highlight a similar prevalence between men and women, with a higher prevalence in elderly women driven by longer life expectancy. Sex-related differences in clinical presentation, anatomy, and pathophysiology influence disease progression, severity assessment, and management.

Current Trends and Future Challenges in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: Utility of Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography.

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has revolutionized the treatment of aortic stenosis. As TAVR continues to evolve, precise pre-procedural planning and imaging have become increasingly critical. While transthoracic echocardiography remains indispensable for assessing the severity of aortic stenosis, cardiac computed tomography angiography (CCTA) has emerged as the benchmark imaging modality for pre-procedural planning for TAVR.