3D printing is revolutionizing various industries, enabling the creation of intricate, customized physical models by layering materials such as silicone or polymers based on digital designs. Among its diverse applications, healthcare has seen significant advancements with this technology. In cardiology, the adoption of 3D modeling has lagged compared to other fields, primarily due to the challenge of depicting the heart’s complex, dynamic nature. This pattern mirrors the initial slow integration of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging into cardiac care […]

In Brazil, the annual incidence of myocardial infarction is estimated at approximately 300,000 to 400,000 cases. Despite advancements in treatment, myocardial infarction remains the leading cause of death in Brazil and globally, with a lethality rate of around 9%. According to the BRACE registry, acute coronary syndrome (ACS) accounts for 45% of hospitalizations in Brazil, with two-thirds attributed to acute myocardial infarction (AMI), including both ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). Notably, 40% to 60% […]

Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is universally accepted as the cornerstone of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. Current guidelines recommend electrical isolation of the pulmonary veins in all AF ablation procedures (Class I, level of evidence A). As of today, the most common methods to perform PVI are point-by-point radiofrequency (RF) guided by 3D mapping or the cryoballoon. Both are thermal energies, creating lesions by heating (RF) or freezing (cryoenergy) the tissue. Of note, it has been consistently demonstrated that RF ablation […]

Exercise training is considered one of the most efficient non-pharmacological measures for reducing blood pressure and increasing the redox state in blood vessel walls. Indeed, regular exercise training can cause endothelial relaxation by increasing nitric oxide (NO) levels, with or without a reduction in the amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Excessive production and/or accumulation of ROS can result in redox imbalance, with decreased NO bioavailability and consequent endothelial dysfunction., In this regard, reduced NO release is one of the […]

The impact of intraventricular conduction disorders on myocardial activation and ventricular function has long been debated. However, with the advent of cardiac resynchronization therapy, this topic has gained even more attention during the last two decades., At that time, our team utilized surface electrocardiographic mapping and isochronal line maps to assess the mean activation time in three specific regions of the heart: the right ventricle (RV), the left ventricle (LV), and the anteroseptal region. This evaluation was conducted on patients […]

As reported by Cheng-Mei et al. myocardial fibrosis is present in various cardiac diseases and can negatively impact the heart. It plays a central role in cardiac dysfunction and failure across different pathologies, serving as a strong predictor of poor clinical outcomes and mortality. However, it is essential to recognize that fibrosis is a complex and heterogeneous process, which can sometimes play a beneficial role, such as after a myocardial infarction. In this context, fibrosis acts as a reparative mechanism, […]

The prominently influential media outlet currently known as X (Formerly “Twitter”) was originally conceived as a microblogging platform intended to broadcast short status updates, amenable to immediate delivery to friends and followers. However, it has sparked a revolution in the way information is shared, opinions are expressed, and connections that are made in real-time. With its short-message format, the platform enables instant communication between individuals thousands of miles apart with just a few taps on a smartphone screen. In the […]

Lack of adherence to cholesterol-lowering medications remains a critical issue in managing cardiovascular risk. Despite advancements in treatment, many patients fail to follow their prescribed regimens, leading to increased risks of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events. As described in the study, adherence challenges in the Brazilian population illustrate a global problem. However, there are several promising strategies for increasing adherence, including the active involvement of pharmacists and the distribution of medications in larger volumes through public or private […]

Acute or chronic coronary syndrome is one of the most important threats to public health. Because of structural and/or functional alterations of the coronary arteries and/or microcirculation, it can culminate in disbalance between myocardial demand and blood supply resulting in ischemia. Primary prevention of acute coronary ischemic events based on lowering the risk of coronary artery occlusion is a very important measurement. Secondary prevention after myocardial revascularization by percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with stent is important to reduce the risk […]

Over 35 years ago, Brazilian citizens earned their constitutional right to health. Guided by the fundamental principles of universality and equity, health access and actions provided by the Brazilian Unified Health System (Sistema Único de Saúde – SUS) are ever-since responsibilities of the State and should be, therefore, guaranteed by economic and social policies. Since its creation, SUS has experienced significant improvements in disease prevention and health promotion. A dramatic drop in infant mortality and a significant increase in life […]