Giovanni Rovaris

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This study looked at how widely conduction system pacing (CSP) is being used in Italian hospitals to help patients with heart rhythm issues. Out of 136 centers that responded to the survey, 86% reported they are using CSP, with most starting in the last two years and 10% of all pacemakers implanted being CSP devices. However, many centers face challenges due to a lack of trained staff, and while 63% of operators felt confident in performing the procedure, nearly half had done fewer than 10 implants, indicating a need for more experience. Who this helps: This benefits patients with heart conditions needing pacing therapy, particularly those with atrioventricular block.

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This study looked at how effective and safe a new type of heart procedure called pulsed-field ablation (PFA) is for women with a condition known as paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF), compared to traditional methods like cryoablation and radiofrequency ablation. Researchers found that PFA had a shorter procedure time, taking about 60 minutes, compared to 120 minutes for radiofrequency and 75 minutes for cryoablation, and it resulted in fewer complications (only 0.9% with PFA versus 4.6% with thermal methods). After a year, about 87% of patients treated with PFA were free from AF, which was similar to the outcomes for the other treatments, highlighting that PFA is a safe and efficient option for women with this heart condition. Who this helps: This helps women with atrial fibrillation looking for effective treatment options.

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This study looked at how well a treatment called pulsed-field ablation (PFA) works for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who also have heart failure. Researchers analyzed information from 1,224 patients and found that 79.9% of them were free from heart rhythm problems one year after treatment, but only 73.3% of those with heart failure achieved this compared to 81.0% of those without heart failure. This is important because effective treatment options for AF in heart failure patients can lead to better heart health and overall quality of life. Who this helps: Patients with atrial fibrillation and heart failure.

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This study looked at how effective pulsed-field ablation (PFA) is for treating atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with heart failure (HF). Among the 1,224 patients analyzed, 176 had heart failure, and those with no heart failure saw a higher success rate in staying free from AF after one year (81%) compared to those with heart failure (73%). This research shows that PFA can be an effective treatment option for AF, especially in patients without heart failure. Who this helps: This benefits patients with atrial fibrillation, particularly those with no heart failure.

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This study looked at the effectiveness of a two-lead heart device, known as CRT-DX, compared to a traditional three-lead device for patients undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy. Researchers followed 636 patients and found that the two-lead device was just as effective as the three-lead device, with 13.1% of CRT-DX patients experiencing major health issues compared to 15.6% of patients with the standard device. The two-lead system also resulted in fewer complications related to atrial leads, which is significant for improving patient safety and device management. Who this helps: This helps patients with heart conditions needing device therapy, as well as their doctors.

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This study looked at how well leadless pacemakers (LPMs) work for patients with different levels of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Among 1,748 patients, complications during and after implantation were similar across groups, with major complication rates of about 1.8% for those with normal kidney function and 2.4% for advanced CKD. However, patients with end-stage CKD had higher overall death rates (19.5% compared to 9.8% for those with normal kidneys), which highlights the greater risks faced by these patients. Who this helps: Patients with chronic kidney disease and their doctors.

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This study looked at how well subcutaneous implantable defibrillators (S-ICDs) work in athletes compared to non-athletes. Researchers found that while athletes had a higher rate of appropriate shocks during exercise (7.2%) compared to non-athletes (4.3%) and more infections right after getting the device (3.3% vs. 0.9%), overall complications were similar between both groups. The findings matter because S-ICDs are effective at preventing sudden cardiac death in athletes, and participating in sports doesn’t increase the overall risk of problems from the device. Who this helps: Athletes with heart conditions who need cardiac devices.

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The study examined the use of a heart treatment called left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) in Italy, focusing on its effectiveness and safety among patients with slow heart rates or heart failure. Researchers looked at 1,250 procedures and found that 96.6% of these procedures were successful, with significant improvements in heart function, particularly for patients with certain heart conduction issues—QRS duration decreased from 144 milliseconds to 120 milliseconds. The results highlighted that doctors with more experience had better outcomes and lower chances of failing the procedure, emphasizing the importance of operator skill. Who this helps: This benefits patients with bradycardia and heart failure, ensuring they receive safer and more effective treatment.

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This study looked at two types of leadless pacemakers—Medtronic Micra VR and Abbott Aveir VR—to see if one had fewer complications after implantation. They found that after 30 days, both devices had similar rates of problems, with just 2.1% of patients experiencing complications for each device. This is important because it shows that despite their different designs and implantation processes, both pacemakers are equally safe for patients in the short term. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing pacemakers, as they can trust that either option has a comparable safety record.

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This study looked at how well two types of heart devices, called implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), detect a condition called device-detected subclinical atrial fibrillation (DDAF) in patients who don’t need specific pacing. The research found that about 30.7% of patients experienced DDAF lasting at least 15 minutes during an average follow-up of 4.5 years. Although the DX ICD initially seemed better at detecting DDAF, after making adjustments for patient differences, the rates of DDAF were similar for both devices. Who this helps: Patients with heart conditions who receive ICDs can benefit from better monitoring of their heart's rhythm.

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This study looked at how often patients with diabetes and those without diabetes experienced short episodes of irregular heartbeats, called device-detected subclinical atrial fibrillation (DDAF), after getting heart devices like implantable cardioverter-defibrillators. Among 1,619 patients, it was found that while patients with diabetes had higher rates of DDAF lasting over 15 minutes (65.7% vs. 57.7% in non-diabetics), these differences disappeared when other factors were considered. However, DDAF was linked to a much higher risk of death for diabetic patients, with a fourfold increase in risk, showing that monitoring heart rhythms is crucial for diabetic patients with heart conditions. Who this helps: This benefits patients with diabetes and heart devices, as well as their healthcare providers.

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This study focused on how to prevent a serious infection called infective endocarditis in patients who undergo heart-related procedures. The researchers found that these patients have a higher risk of developing this infection, which can lead to longer hospital stays and higher chances of death. Antibiotic treatment before and after surgery is important for reducing these risks and improving patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing cardiovascular interventions and the healthcare teams caring for them.

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This study looked at a new laser balloon treatment for a heart condition called atrial fibrillation (AF). Researchers found that 73.8% of patients who used this treatment had no AF recurrence after one year, and this number increased to 77.7% for doctors who were more experienced with the technique. This is important because it shows that the laser balloon treatment is both safe and effective in helping patients stay free from AF long-term. Who this helps: Patients with atrial fibrillation.

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This study looked at how the timing of a specific heart procedure called cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation (CB-PVI) affects the chances of repeated episodes of atrial fibrillation (AF), a common heart rhythm disorder. It involved over 3,200 patients, and the findings showed that 28.5% of them experienced at least one AF episode after the procedure, with a higher recurrence in those whose symptoms began more than 18 months prior (with a risk increase of 23% for each additional month beyond that). These results highlight the importance of early treatment for AF to improve patient outcomes. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with atrial fibrillation and their doctors by guiding treatment timing for better results.

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This study examined how different heart conditions affect the performance of subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (S-ICDs) in 1,698 patients. It found that while the overall rate of appropriate shocks was similar for those with ischemic and nonischemic conditions (around 4.8% per year for ischemic patients and 3.9% for nonischemic patients), those with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) experienced the highest rate of appropriate shocks at 9.0% per year. It's important because understanding these differences can help doctors better manage and treat patients with various heart conditions who receive S-ICDs. Who this helps: This benefits patients with different types of cardiomyopathy and their doctors.

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This study looked at how effective a quick blood test is at detecting Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections in patients who have not previously received treatment. Out of 53 patients who underwent an endoscopy, the test showed 7 positive and 46 negative results, with a sensitivity of 54.5% and a specificity of 97.6%. This means the test is quite good at confirming when someone does not have the infection, making it a useful, low-cost option for screening large groups of people. Who this helps: This helps patients who may be infected with H. pylori by providing an easier way to get diagnosed.

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This study looked at how the electrical signals from the heart, measured by devices like pacemakers and defibrillators, can predict the risk of episodes where the heart beats rapidly. Researchers found that a smaller signal, specifically a P-wave amplitude below 2.45 millivolts, significantly increased the likelihood of these rapid beating episodes worsening. For instance, patients with lower P-wave amplitudes faced a 51% higher risk of their episodes lasting longer over time, indicating a more serious heart issue. Who this helps: This research helps patients with heart devices and their doctors in monitoring and managing heart health.

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This study examined how ventricular tachycardia ablation (VTA) affects long-term health outcomes in patients with subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillators (S-ICDs). Among 211 patients, those who received VTA had significantly better results, experiencing a lower yearly event rate of serious heart problems (3.8% versus 16.4%) and cardiovascular deaths (0.7% versus 4.7%) compared to those who did not have the procedure. This finding is important because it shows that VTA can improve the health and survival of patients with S-ICDs who experience dangerous heart rhythms. Who this helps: This helps patients with S-ICDs and their doctors by providing better treatment options for managing heart issues.

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This study looked at the differences between men and women who received a specific type of heart device called a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (S-ICD). Researchers found that during follow-up, men experienced appropriate shocks from the device more often than women (3.4% per year for men vs. 1.7% for women), indicating women are less likely to benefit from the device's corrective actions. The findings matter because they highlight the need for better understanding and treatment strategies for women who receive S-ICDs, ensuring that all patients get effective care. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially women with heart conditions.

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Researchers studied the use of mixed-brand cardiac implants—devices that use parts from different manufacturers—over ten years in Italy. They found that overall, only 4.1% of these devices were mixed-brand, with pacemaker patients at 4.5%, those with cardiac resynchronization devices at 6.8%, and implantable defibrillator patients at just 1.1%. This matters because understanding how often these mixed devices are used can help improve patient safety and device functionality, especially as MRI use becomes more common. Who this helps: This helps patients with heart devices who may need MRI scans in the future.

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This study looked at patients with advanced heart failure who used both a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) and a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD). Out of 30 patients, 21 experienced some degree of electromagnetic interference, but 90% remained eligible for the S-ICD. This is important because it shows that most patients can safely use both devices together, although doctors need to be cautious about potential issues related to electromagnetic interference that could affect how the devices work. Who this helps: Patients with advanced heart failure who require mechanical support for their hearts.

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This study looked at a new treatment method called third-generation laser balloon ablation for patients with a type of irregular heartbeat known as paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Out of 257 patients treated, 84.8% were free from heart rhythm problems one year later, and this number dropped to 76% after three years. These findings show that this treatment method is both safe and effective over nearly three years, helping patients maintain a normal heart rhythm. Who this helps: This helps patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation seeking effective treatment options.

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This study looked at how age affects the reasons for getting a leadless pacemaker, a type of heart device, and the outcomes of these procedures. Researchers examined 1,154 patients, finding that older patients often needed the device due to concerns like infections or vascular issues (68% compared to 6% in younger patients), while younger patients primarily chose the device based on personal preference (47% compared to 6% in older patients). Complications during and after the procedure were similar across age groups, and younger patients had slightly higher pacing needs over time. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and patients considering leadless pacemaker options based on age-related factors.

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Researchers studied how well the CHADS-VASc score predicts the return of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients who underwent a procedure called pulmonary vein isolation with cryoballoon ablation. They found that after three years, 72.5% of low-risk patients (CHADS-VASc scores of 0-1) remained free from AF, compared to only 65.9% of high-risk patients (scores of 2 or higher). This difference indicates that a higher CHADS-VASc score can help doctors anticipate AF recurrence, which is important for managing patient care after the procedure. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and patients with atrial fibrillation by improving treatment strategies.

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This study looked at how well implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) leads perform, combining data from over 66,000 leads from various studies. It found that after eight years, 94.1% of newer leads that were not recalled were still working properly, compared to only 81.2% for recalled leads. The results highlight the importance of using large, multicenter studies for understanding lead performance, as smaller studies tend to report lower success rates. Who this helps: This helps patients who rely on ICDs for heart health by ensuring they receive safer, more reliable devices.

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This study looked at how safe and effective leadless pacemakers (LPMs) are for patients who had their previous leads removed compared to those getting LPMs for the first time. Researchers analyzed data from 1,179 patients, finding that major complications and overall death rates were similar between the two groups, with 1.6% complications in the lead extraction group and 2.2% in the first-time group. However, patients in the lead extraction group had higher pacing thresholds, indicating they needed more electrical stimulation, especially when the pacemaker was placed in a different heart location after lead removal, which led to better outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits patients who need pacemakers after lead removal, as well as their doctors in making informed decisions on implantation locations.

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This study looked at how drops in thoracic impedance (a measurement of lung and heart function) recorded by heart devices can predict serious heart rhythm problems in patients with implantable devices. Out of 2,384 patients, 30.4% experienced these dangerous heart episodes, and for those with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), a significant decrease in thoracic impedance (more than 60%) was linked to a 42% higher risk of these episodes occurring within 60 days. This finding is important because it helps identify patients at risk for serious heart issues, although it also indicates that warnings may come either before or after the actual heart problems occur. Who this helps: This helps patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators and their doctors.

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This study looked at heart rate data from 1,330 heart failure patients with implanted devices, focusing on their nighttime heart rate (nHR) and average 24-hour heart rate (24h-HR). It found that patients with a nighttime heart rate above 65 beats per minute had more than double the risk of dying from non-heart-related causes and nearly twice the risk of serious heart rhythm issues compared to those with a heart rate of 57 beats per minute or lower. The findings highlight the importance of monitoring these heart rates to better understand risks for patients and improve their care. Who this helps: This helps heart failure patients and their healthcare providers by identifying critical risk factors for serious health issues.

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This study looked at how sex affects the outcomes of patients receiving leadless pacemakers, devices that help regulate heartbeats. Researchers analyzed data from 1,179 patients and found that men made up 64.3% of the group. After adjusting for age and health conditions, they found that women had similar rates of major complications and survival rates compared to men, although women had slightly higher device impedance at the time of implantation and during follow-up, but this remained within normal limits. Who this helps: This research benefits patients and doctors by showing that both men and women can expect similar outcomes from leadless pacemaker procedures.

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This study looked at the effectiveness and safety of a procedure called left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion in dialysis patients with a heart condition known as atrial fibrillation (AF). Over a follow-up period of four years, researchers found that patients who underwent LAA occlusion had significantly fewer blood clots (only 1.7 events per 100 person-years) and lower bleeding risks compared to those taking the blood thinner warfarin (HR of 0.37), and they also had lower mortality rates than both the patients on warfarin and those not receiving any blood-thinning therapy. This matters because it offers a safer and more effective option for reducing serious heart-related risks in a vulnerable group of patients. Who this helps: Dialysis patients with atrial fibrillation.

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This study looked at how effective and safe a procedure called cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation (CB-PVI) is for treating atrial fibrillation (AF) in young adults compared to middle-aged adults. Researchers found that both groups had similar success rates during the procedure (about 99.9% for young patients and 99.8% for middle-aged patients) and similar rates of complications (1.9% for young and 2.3% for middle-aged). After one year, 88.9% of younger patients and 85.6% of middle-aged patients remained free from AF, and these rates were also comparable after three years. Who this helps: This information benefits both young patients with AF and their doctors by confirming the safety and effectiveness of CB-PVI for younger populations.

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This study looked at patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who underwent a specific treatment called catheter ablation using a laser balloon. Researchers found that 15.6% of patients had early heart rhythm problems during a recovery phase called the blanking period, and those who had such problems were much more likely to experience ongoing issues later on. Specifically, men and those with ongoing AF were at higher risk, highlighting the importance of monitoring early complications to improve long-term patient outcomes. Who this helps: This research helps patients with atrial fibrillation and their doctors by providing insights into early warning signs of recurring heart issues.

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This study examined the success and safety of removing old heart leads using special tools in patients whose leads had been in place for more than 10 years. Out of 441 leads from 189 patients, 94.8% were completely removed successfully, with only 1.8% failing to be extracted and a low complication rate of 2%. These results are important because they show that lead extraction can be done safely and effectively in older patients who need it, which can improve their health and reduce complications. Who this helps: This benefits patients with old heart leads and their doctors.

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This study looked at how leadless pacemakers are being used in hospitals in the Lombardy region of Italy. Out of 411 patients who received these devices, most were elderly, with a median age of 77 years. The study found that the most common reason for using a leadless pacemaker was slow atrial fibrillation, and overall, it was shown to be a safe option, particularly for older patients, with only a small number of reported complications. Who this helps: This benefits elderly patients with heart rhythm issues.

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This study looked at two types of cryoballoon catheters—second generation (CB2) and fourth generation (CB4)—used to treat a heart condition called atrial fibrillation. Researchers found that the CB4 group had a higher success rate in keeping patients free from atrial fibrillation after a year (93.3%) compared to the CB2 group (81.3%), while also needing less procedure time and exposure to X-rays during treatment. This is important because it shows that the newer CB4 catheter not only works well but also makes the treatment process quicker and safer for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with atrial fibrillation looking for effective treatment options.

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This study looked at whether patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) experience more return of atrial fibrillation (AF) after a specific heart treatment called cryoballoon ablation. They analyzed data from 1,971 patients and found that, after two years, 23.4% of patients with normal kidney function had AF return, compared to 28.3% for those with mildly decreased kidney function, and 33.5% for those with mild to moderate CKD. This matters because it shows that even mild reductions in kidney function can increase the chances of AF coming back, highlighting the need for closer monitoring in these patients. Who this helps: Patients with chronic kidney disease and atrial fibrillation.

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This study looked at the differences in heart rhythm problems (called ventricular arrhythmias) between men and women who have implantable defibrillators. Researchers examined a group of 2,532 patients, and found that after matching for various health factors, women experienced fewer serious heart rhythm issues than men—specifically, their risk of these events was 35% lower, and their chance of receiving device therapy or shocks was also reduced, by about 41% and 34% respectively. Understanding these differences is important for tailoring treatment strategies and improving outcomes for patients based on gender. Who this helps: This helps patients with heart conditions as well as doctors who treat them.

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This study looked at how safely and effectively leadless pacemakers (LPMs) can be implanted in patients experiencing severe heart rhythm problems in emergency situations. Out of 1,154 patients, those receiving urgent LPMs faced longer procedure times of 60 minutes compared to 50 minutes for elective patients, but the rate of serious complications was similar between the two groups (6.9% for emergency vs. 4.2% for elective). This finding is important because it shows that LPMs can be used safely in emergencies without increasing the risk of major complications. Who this helps: This benefits patients who need urgent heart rhythm treatment and doctors involved in emergency cardiac care.

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This study compared two techniques for treating atrial fibrillation (AF) through a procedure called catheter ablation: cryoballoon (CB) and laser-balloon (LB) methods. Researchers found that after one year, about 30% of patients in both groups experienced a return of arrhythmia, showing similar effectiveness, with a very low average recurrence rate for both techniques. This matters because it informs doctors that both options are equally effective for AF treatment, helping them choose the right method for their patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with atrial fibrillation and their doctors in deciding on treatment options.

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This study looked at a new method of treating heart failure using two completely leadless devices called Micra and WiSE-CRT. Researchers found that all eight patients showed improved heart function after receiving the WiSE-CRT device, with a significant drop in a specific heart measurement (QRS duration went from an average of 204 ms to 137 ms), and a marked improvement in heart pumping ability after six months (from 28.4% to 39.7% ejection fraction). This is important because it shows a safe and effective way to enhance treatment for patients who need help with pacing but cannot use traditional devices. Who this helps: This helps heart failure patients who have difficulties with existing pacemaker options.

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This study looked at how safe and effective a procedure called cryoablation is for treating patients with atrial fibrillation—an irregular heart rhythm—focusing on overweight and obese individuals. Out of 2,048 patients treated, those with normal weight had a 76.4% chance of not having a recurrence of atrial fibrillation after 12 months, while overweight patients had a slightly better outcome at 79.2%, and obese patients had a lower rate at 73.5%. Importantly, having a higher body mass index didn’t seem to affect the overall success of the treatment or how many patients needed to stay on antiarrhythmic drugs after a year. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with atrial fibrillation, especially those who are overweight or obese.

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This study looked at the use of cryoballoon ablation (CBA) as a first-line treatment for patients with atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder. Among 249 patients treated, the procedure had a very high success rate of 99.8% and most patients experienced significant relief from symptoms, with 86.3% free from atrial fibrillation after one year. Only a small number of patients faced complications, making this treatment both effective and safe for those in need. Who this helps: This benefits patients with atrial fibrillation who have not responded to medications.

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This study looked at patients who received a special heart device called a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (S-ICD). It compared two groups: one that underwent defibrillation testing during the device implantation and one that did not. After following 566 patients for about 25 months, the results showed no significant differences in heart-related deaths or ineffective shocks between the two groups. Who this helps: This information helps doctors decide whether defibrillation testing is necessary for S-ICD patients.

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This study looked at how the time of day affects the occurrence and treatment of dangerous heart rhythms (ventricular arrhythmias) in patients with implantable heart devices. Researchers found that 65% of these episodes could be stopped using a method called anti-tachycardia pacing (ATP), but this method was less effective during the late-night to early morning hours, particularly between midnight and 4 AM. Most arrhythmia episodes happened between 8 AM and 4 PM, and nighttime episodes were more often of a complex type, which can be more dangerous. Who this helps: Patients with implantable heart devices.

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This study looked at how effective cardiac devices, known as cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) defibrillators, are for patients with permanent atrial fibrillation (AF) compared to those without. Researchers found that while the overall death rates were similar for both groups, those with permanent AF and suboptimal device performance faced almost double the risk of receiving appropriate defibrillator shocks than those without AF, highlighting that 70.7% of AF patients did not get adequate CRT. This matters because it shows that AF patients may not be getting the maximum benefit from their heart devices, which can impact their treatment outcomes and quality of life. Who this helps: This helps patients with permanent atrial fibrillation and their doctors.

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This study looked at the safety and effectiveness of a treatment called cryoballoon ablation for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), focusing on how age affects outcomes. They examined the results of over 2,500 patients and found that about 79% of patients under 53 remained free from AF after one year, while only 75% of those over 67 did. The treatment was safe for all age groups, but older patients, especially over 74, had higher rates of AF coming back over time. Who this helps: Patients with atrial fibrillation, especially older individuals.

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This study looked at how effective a procedure called cryoballoon ablation (CB-A) is for patients with a type of irregular heartbeat known as paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF). Researchers followed 102 patients for 2 years after the procedure and found that 65.7% were free from symptoms after one year, and 59.3% remained symptom-free by the second year. It's important to carefully assess heart records from patients to avoid mistakes in diagnosing their condition, as many readings can be false alarms. Who this helps: Patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation who undergo cryoballoon ablation.

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This study looked at a new type of balloon procedure using laser technology to treat atrial fibrillation (AF), a common heart rhythm problem. Researchers found that after one year, 66.9% of patients had not experienced a return of AF, with even higher rates of 81% and 86.8% when looking at longer time thresholds. No major complications occurred during the procedure, indicating it is both safe and effective for patients. Who this helps: Patients with atrial fibrillation seeking reliable treatment options.