Dr.S.Venkatesan MD

What is in store for the future of cardiology as of 2022?

Here is one of the rare lectures (A grand rounds by Houston Methodist)  by legendary cardiologist Dr. Euegne Braunwald who shares his wisdom, vision, and research and finally his advice for the generation next cardiologist.

For those, who are short of time to listen to the father of modern-day cardiology, let me share a preview. The talk is divided into 6 subsets.

1. Polygenic risk score (PRS)  Dr. Braunwald talks about how genetic risk profiling and risk factor interaction will help us identify susceptible populations. Here, he stresses also the importance of clinical risk assessment.
2. Primordial prevention of CAD: 
3. Anti-lipid strategies: He introduces a new concept of  Cumulative LDL score &  CHD threshold.  Dr. Braunwald argues rigorous lipid control should go beyond statins and suggest once a year Injection Inclisiran(Small interfering RNA that prevents PCSK synthesis) will reset the lipids levels by 40% and prolong life by 30 years.
4. Anti -Inflammatory strategies: He reminds us Atherosclerosis is equally an inflammatory disease and new anti-inflammatory drugs like Canakinumab’s role could be vital.
5. Artificial Intelligence: Will be the guiding force in the future of preventive cardiology, as well as treatment. He tells us predicting Atrial fibrillation and even LV function from the resting ECG is possible.
6. Clonal hematopoiesis independent potential (CHIP) is a new risk factor by somatic mutations in leukocytes that accelerate atherosclerosis proven by canonical risk predicting models

    It was a great one hour to spend on a Sunday, under Covid Lockdown.  However, It was a surprise, the biggest Innovation in cardiology in the last century, PCI, and other exotic coronary and noncoronary interventions could not find a place in his one-hour lecture. I think there is a hidden message here. 

He signs off with some important advice for the generation next cardiologist.

Thanks, Methodist for bringing  this to us.