How can echocardiographers improve the accuracy and confidence of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy diagnosis? In this episode of In the Thick of It, sonographers Amy Dillenbeck and Brad Mehl explore the essential role of echocardiography in evaluating HCM, sharing best practices for optimizing imaging techniques, Doppler assessment, and contrast use. They discuss the most common challenges in detecting HCM, how to train sonographers to recognize subtle diagnostic clues, and strategies to avoid misinterpretation. Whether you're a seasoned clinician or new to HCM imaging, this episode offers valuable insights into refining echocardiographic evaluation for better patient outcomes.

Season 2 of In the Thick of It is brought to you by the HCM Society, is supported by sponsorship from Cytokinetics, and is produced by Earfluence.

How do we determine which hypertrophic cardiomyopathy patients are at the highest risk for sudden cardiac death? In this episode of In the Thick of It, Dr. Steve Ommen and Dr. Mark Link take a deep dive into the role of non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT) in risk assessment and ICD decision-making. They discuss how age, VT duration, and other clinical factors influence risk stratification, as well as the evolving guidelines on ICD placement. The conversation also covers the latest advancements in device technology and the nuances of selecting the right ICD for each patient. Don’t miss this essential discussion on refining risk assessment and improving outcomes in HCM care.

Season 2 of In the Thick of It is brought to you by the HCM Society, is supported by sponsorship from Cytokinetics, and is produced by Earfluence.

How can late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) on cardiac MRI help predict sudden cardiac death risk in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy? In this episode of In the Thick of It, Dr. Christopher Kramer and Dr. Raymond Chan explore the clinical significance of LGE, from its role in ICD decision-making to the challenges of scar quantification. They discuss how to differentiate true myocardial scar from artifacts, the evolving guidelines on LGE thresholds, and the implications of advanced imaging techniques for HCM management. Tune in for expert insights on integrating LGE into risk assessment and optimizing patient care.

Season 2 of In the Thick of It is brought to you by the HCM Society, is supported by sponsorship from Cytokinetics, and is produced by Earfluence.

How do hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and aortic valve disease intersect, and what makes managing these patients so challenging? In this episode of In the Thick of It, Dr. Srihari Naidu and Dr. Megan Coylewright explore the complexities of aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in patients with HCM. What challenges arise when HCM patients undergo aortic valve replacement, and how can these risks be mitigated? They discuss the risks of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction, strategies to optimize patient outcomes, and the importance of distinguishing HCM from other conditions like amyloidosis. Tune in to learn about the role of advanced imaging, careful patient selection, and multidisciplinary heart teams in managing these overlapping conditions effectively.

Season 2 of In the Thick of It is brought to you by the HCM Society, is supported by sponsorship from Cytokinetics, and is produced by Earfluence.

How has genetic testing transformed the understanding and care of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy? In this episode of In the Thick of It, Dr. Victoria Parikh and genetic counselor Tia Moscarello from the Stanford Center for Inherited Cardiovascular Disease explore the powerful role of genetics in HCM diagnosis, family screening, and treatment. They discuss groundbreaking advancements like gene therapy, precision medicine, and the evolving understanding of variants of uncertain significance (VUS). Tune in to learn how genetic insights are driving early detection, personalized therapies, and even potential cures for HCM, offering hope for patients and their families.

Season 2 of In the Thick of It is brought to you by the HCM Society, is supported by sponsorship from Cytokinetics, and is produced by Earfluence.

What are left ventricular apical aneurysms, and why do they pose such a high risk in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy patients? In this episode of In the Thick of It, Dr. Ethan Rowin and Dr. Jeffrey Geske delve into this rare but critical HCM phenotype. They discuss how to accurately define and detect apical aneurysms, the importance of advanced imaging techniques like contrast echocardiography and cardiac MRI, and the elevated risks of sudden cardiac death and stroke these patients face. This insightful conversation also provides insights into the evolving guidelines for ICD placement and the nuanced role of aneurysm size in risk stratification. Don’t miss this deep dive into one of HCM’s most challenging presentations.

Season 2 of In the Thick of It is brought to you by the HCM Society, is supported by sponsorship from Cytokinetics, and is produced by Earfluence.

Why is early detection of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in children so critical for effective treatment? In this episode of In the Thick of It, Dr. Matthew Martinez sits down with pediatric cardiologist Dr. Tess Saarel to explore the unique challenges of managing HCM in young patients. They discuss the importance of personalized risk assessments, the role of genetics in tailoring care, and the collaborative efforts needed to improve outcomes in pediatric HCM. Join them for an insightful conversation on the evolving landscape of pediatric cardiology in HCM care.

Season 2 of In the Thick of It is brought to you by the HCM Society, is supported by sponsorship from Cytokinetics, and is produced by Earfluence.

What makes managing common conditions like hypertension and sleep apnea uniquely challenging in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy patients? In this episode of In the Thick of It, Dr. Michael Ayers and Dr. Robyn Bryde tackle the complexities of treating comorbidities such as obesity and type 2 diabetes within the context of HCM. They delve into how obstructive physiology impacts treatment choices and share key considerations for surgical clearance, all aimed at optimizing patient outcomes. Tune in for practical insights into managing the multifaceted health needs of HCM patients.

Season 2 of In the Thick of It is brought to you by the HCM Society, is supported by sponsorship from Cytokinetics, and is produced by Earfluence.