Unlocking the Secrets of Acute Coronary Syndromes Using Intravascular Imaging: From Pathophysiology to Improving Outcomes.

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) represents the most severe manifestation of coronary artery disease. Intravascular imaging, both intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and optical coherence tomography (OCT), have played crucial roles for the impressive reduction in mortality of ACS. Intravascular imaging is useful for the detection of atherosclerotic mechanism (plaque rupture, calcified nodules, or plaque erosions) and for the evaluation of nonatherosclerotic and nonobstructive types of ACS.

Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease: From Pathophysiology to Treatment.

The Bicuspid Aortic Valve (BAV) is the most common congenital anomaly in adults, with a global incidence of 1.3%. Despite being well documented, BAV presents significant clinical challenges due to its phenotypic heterogeneity, diverse clinical manifestations, and variable outcomes.

Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury: Unraveling Pathophysiology, Clinical Manifestations, and Emerging Prevention Strategies.

Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) remains a challenge in the context of reperfusion procedures for myocardial infarction (MI). While early revascularization stands as the gold standard for mitigating myocardial injury, recent insights have illuminated the paradoxical role of reperfusion, giving rise to the phenomenon known as ischemia-reperfusion injury. This comprehensive review delves into the intricate pathophysiological pathways involved in MIRI, placing a particular focus on the pivotal role of endothelium.

Atrial Fibrillation After Patent Foramen Ovale Closure: Incidence, Pathophysiology, and Management.

This comprehensive review explores the incidence, pathophysiology, and management of atrial fibrillation (AF) following percutaneous closure of patent foramen ovale (PFO). Although AF is considered a common adverse event post PFO closure, its incidence, estimated at <5%, varies based on monitoring methods. The review delves into the challenging task of precisely estimating AF incidence, given subclinical AF and diverse diagnostic approaches.