The cardiology and interventional cardiology lesson plans are designed for cardiologists, interventional cardiologists, and physicians to improve outcomes with patients experiencing a cardiovascular disease, including those who are critically ill and have complex conditions, through a structured and comprehensive approach. Through this lessons, physicians can also refine their technical knowledge and skills to a higher level in order to perform advanced procedures that require extensive training and experience, ultimately leading to better outcomes for our patients. Furthermore, lessons aim to help physicians to stay updated on the latest advancements in the field.
Lessons are held by KOLs in Cardiology or by our own Fellows.
DCB ACADEMY LESSONS
QCA with Edge Contour, Video Densitometry and OCT: Which Measure Is Most Appropriate? – Patrick Serruys
An insightful and thought-provoking discussion on how we assess vessel response in the DCB era.
IVUS-CHIP Trial – Rima Chaddad
Insightful discussions, practical learning, and the latest evidence in complex coronary intervention. This DCB Academy session spotlighted the IVUS-CHIP Trial, exploring its key findings, limitations, and implications for optimizing outcomes in high-risk PCI. A valuable opportunity to translate emerging evidence into clinical practice.
Champion AF TRIAL – Marco Frazzetto
Left atrial appendage closure and anticoagulation for atrial fibrillation
Can one – time LAAO strategy replace long term NOAC therapy in anticoagulation-elegible AF patients?
The latest DCB Academy Critical Thinking Session featured Dr. Marco Frazzetto in a review of the CHAMPION AF trial, which evaluated left atrial appendage closure versus contemporary oral anticoagulants for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation.
Hemodynamics in TAVR – Amr E Abbas
Early TAVR Hemodynamics and Durability: Facts vs Fiction
The latest DCB Academy lesson featured Dr. Amr Abbas in a focused review of post-procedural hemodynamics after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), separating established evidence from common misconceptions.
The session highlighted the key factors that determine clinical outcomes when interpreting post-procedural hemodynamics after TAVR, offering practical insights to support accurate assessment and patient care.
The ORBITA – CTO Trial – Bernardo Cortese
Randomized, Placebo – Controlled Trial of Chronic Total Occlusion Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Stable Angina
The latest DCB Academy Critical Thinking Session featured Prof. Bernardo Cortese in a review of the ORBITA-CTO trial, which evaluated the impact of PCI for chronic total occlusions on patient symptoms and quality of life.
The session discussed the trial design, key findings, and their implications for contemporary CTO practice.
The OPTIMAL Trial – Bharat Khialani
The latest DCB Academy Critical Thinking Session featured Dr. Bharat Khialani in a review of the OPTIMAL trial, which compared IVUS-guided with angiography-guided PCI for unprotected left main coronary artery disease.
The session discussed the trial design, key findings, and their implications for contemporary left main PCI practice.
Best Practices for the use of Coronary Imaging and Physiology for DCB Interventions – Hector Garcia
The most recent DCB Academy lesson featured Dr. Hector Garcia, director of the cath lab at Medstar in Washington, in a focused overview of how coronary imaging and physiology can support contemporary Drug-Coated Balloon (DCB) treatment strategies.
Drawing on current clinical evidence, the lesson highlighted key criteria for appropriate lesion selection, optimal lesion preparation, and assessment of procedural success. By translating research findings into practical clinical principles, the session provided valuable insights to help operators maximize the effectiveness and durability of DCB-based revascularization strategies.
Precision in Left Main PCI – Ju Hyeon Kim
Dr. Ju Hyeon Kim, MD, PhD, Clinical Associate Professor at Asan Medical Center, Seoul demonstrates why intravascular imaging is essential in Left Main PCI, highlights minimum stent area (MSA)as the key predictor of long-term success and reviews strategic considerations for one- versus two-stent techniques. The session also explores whether intracoronary imaging can better identify distal LM lesions suited for two-stent strategies, offering practical insights for complex coronary interventions.
CV Innovation and Precision Medicine: Bridging Technology and Clinical Impact – Mohamad Alkhouli
In this DCB Academy Master Class, Guest Speaker Mohamad Alkhouli, MD, MBA, Vice Chair, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine at Mayo Clinic, delivers a rigorous and forward-looking discussion examining whether deep technologies can meaningfully bridge the gap between scientific advancement and real-world cardiovascular outcomes.
Tricuspid Regurgitation Management – Julien Dreyfus
We were honored to host our esteemed guest speaker for this DCB Academy Master Class on transcatheter tricuspid interventions. Dr. Julien Dreyfus, MD, PhD, Interventional Cardiologist and Echocardiographer at the Centre Cardiologique du Nord, Saint-Denis, France, generously shared his invaluable expertise, including pioneering first-in-human experience and real-world clinical insights, enriching the Advanced Cardiology and Interventional Cardiology Course for all participants.
Calcified Nodules in PCI – Doosup Shin
We were honored to have Dr. Doosup Shin, MD, FSCAI, as our guest speaker for this DCB Academy Master Class on Calcified Nodules in PCI. The session was truly insightful, packed with practical and evidence-based strategies for understanding, diagnosing, and managing one of the most complex challenges in contemporary PCI.
Expert Insights on MCS in High-Risk PCI – Babar Basir
We are honored to feature Dr. Babar Basir, DO, FACC, FSCAI, sharing his invaluable expertise on mechanical circulatory support in high-risk PCI. This masterclass offers experience-driven, scientifically grounded strategies to elevate clinical practice.
Provisional Stenting: Active Side Branch Protection – Bharat Khialani
In this DCB Academy lesson, we review advanced principles of Active Side Branch Protection in Provisional Stenting. Learn evidence-based wiring strategies, balloon techniques, and decision-making algorithms to maintain side branch patency during bifurcation PCI. Case-based examples illustrate practical challenges, troubleshooting, and best practices for optimizing outcomes in complex lesions.
Mastering CTO Revascularization in 2025 – Emmanouil S. Brilakis
We are privileged to present this master session with Dr. Emmanouil S. Brilakis, MD, PhD, a leading authority in interventional cardiology. In this session, Dr. Brilakis provides invaluable insights into CTO revascularization, advanced procedural techniques, and the strategic use of Drug-Coated Balloons (DCB).
Rethinking Chest Pain Without Obstructive CAD – Hayder D. Hashim
Explore this insightful DCB Academy session featuring Dr. Hayder D. Hashim, MD, FACC, FSCAI, Assistant Professor of Cardiology at Georgetown University and Interventional Cardiologist at MedStar Heart & Vascular Institute, as he delves into the critical yet often overlooked role of coronary microcirculation in patients with chest pain but no obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). In “The Microcirculation Matters: Rethinking Chest Pain Without Obstructive CAD,” Dr. Hashim discusses diagnostic challenges, evolving paradigms, and why it’s time to look beyond the angiogram in assessing angina and ischemia.
Drug-Coated Balloons (DCBs) in Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) – Leontin Lazar
This DCB Academy session presents an in-depth review of the latest clinical trial data on the use of Drug-Coated Balloons (DCBs) in Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). Stay updated on the most recent evidence and its implications for endovascular treatment strategies.
Calcium “Sniping” with OCT – Bharat Khialani
In this lesson, we explored the application of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) to precisely assess and target calcified lesions during drug-coated balloon (DCB) interventions. The session details the methodology for calcium “sniping,” emphasizing accurate identification and modification techniques to optimize lesion preparation and enhance clinical outcomes.
Volatile Coronaries: From Diagnostic Testing to Therapeutic Strategies – Jasim Hasan
Join us in this comprehensive lesson exploring coronary artery spasm, its causes, how to accurately diagnose it through testing, and the latest therapeutic approaches to manage this challenging condition.
Case-Based Acute Coronary Syndrome: STEMI with Late Presentation – What to Do? – Muhammad Waqas
In this lesson, we dive into the management of STEMI patients who present late after symptom onset. Using real clinical cases, we explore decision-making strategies, the role of drug-coated balloons (DCB), and best practices to optimize outcomes in late-presenting acute coronary syndrome. Whether you’re an interventional cardiologist or a trainee, this session offers practical insights to enhance your clinical approach.
How to Treat Calcified Native Disease Post CABG – Bharat Khialani
Explore advanced strategies for managing complex calcified coronary disease using PCI techniques and lesion preparation. Watch now on DCB Academy!
Case-Based: How to Effectively Prepare Calcified Lesions – Sandeep Basavarajaiah
Struggling with heavily calcified lesions?In this case-based lesson, learn how to choose and apply IVL, rotational atherectomy, or both for optimal lesion preparation. Real cases. Clear strategies. Practical tips.
Revolutionizing PAD Treatment: The Power of Drug-Coated Balloons – Leontin Lazar
In this lesson, we explore the role of Drug-Coated Balloons (DCB) in treating Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD).
Bailout stenting – Mauro Gitto | Filippo Luca Gurguglione
An exclusive m masterclass featuring distinguished experts Dr. Mauro Gitto and Dr. Filippo Luca Gurgoglione, focusing on the critical clinical decision-making process behind bailout stenting: when, why, and how to implement it following DCB angioplasty.
Key Trials to Watch | TCT 2024 – Leontin Lazar
In this lesson from DCB Academy, we break down the most crucial trials that will shape the future of cardiology. From groundbreaking results to cutting-edge therapies, find out what’s new and why it matters
Using large databases for cardiovascular outcome – Irfan Ullah
In this lesson, we explore how large databases are transforming cardiovascular outcome research. Learn how researchers are leveraging big data to uncover trends, risk factors, and innovative treatments for cardiovascular diseases.
Mitral Annular Calcification – Jasim Hasan
In this comprehensive lesson, we explore the underlying pathophysiology of mitral annular calcification (MAC), its impact on heart function, diagnostic techniques, and current management strategies.
Mechanical Circulatory Support – Muhammad Waqas
Explore the critical trials that have shaped our understanding of Cardiogenic Shock and the role of Mechanical Circulatory Support. In this lesson, we break down the most important research and its impact on clinical practice.
LDL-C management strategies in ACS patients – Filippo Luca Gurguglione
A comprehensive look into LDL-C management strategies in ACS patients. This lesson explores the current recommendations and challenges of determining the optimal timing for cholesterol-lowering interventions.
Master wire and catheter selection in interventional cardiology – Leontin Lazar
In this session, DCB Academy presents an in-depth lesson on wire and catheter selection for various lesions in interventional cardiology.
Masterclass on Mitral Regurgitation & Transcatheter Interventions – Part 2 – Carmelo Grasso
In the second part of this session,, we continue our deep dive into real-world cases, advanced diagnostic techniques, and cutting-edge treatment strategies for managing mitral regurgitation.
Masterclass on Mitral Regurgitation & Transcatheter Interventions – Part 1 – Carmelo Grasso
In the first part of this session, we explore the diagnostic criteria, treatment options, and the latest clinical trials related to mitral regurgitation, with a focus on transcatheter interventions. In-depth insights into various techniques and their application in clinical practice are provided.
Managing Large Thrombus Burden in ACS – Bharat Khialani
In this lesson, we explore three distinct real-world cases of managing large thrombus burdens in ACS, showcasing practical strategies, challenges, and clinical insights for improved patient outcomes.
Unlocking the Future of PCI: Revolutionary Insights on DCB-PCI | Bernardo Cortese
In this exclusive interview, Cardiovascular News sits down with Prof. Bernardo Cortese from the Harrington Heart & Vascular Institute at UH Cleveland, USA, to delve into the latest breakthroughs and ongoing challenges surrounding drug-coated balloons (DCBs) in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Prof. Cortese discusses the critical issues influencing the widespread adoption of DCB-PCI in clinical practice, reviews the most recent evidence on patient selection, and highlights the role of DCBs across different lesion types. He also emphasizes how evolving data is shaping clinical guidelines and treatment strategies.
Advancing Cardiology with AI – Fabrizio D’Ascenzo
In this highly anticipated lecture, Prof. D’Ascenzo provides in-depth insights into the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence in cardiology, focusing on its ability to enhance diagnostic accuracy, improve risk prediction, and refine prognostic evaluations. This session is a vital resource for healthcare professionals dedicated to leveraging cutting-edge technology to advance patient care.
Angiography-Driven Physiology for PCI Guidance: Is This the Future of Coronary Intervention? – Giovanni Occhipinti
In this exclusive lesson from DCB Academy, we explore the emerging role of angiography-driven physiology in guiding Percutaneous Coronary Interventions (PCI). This unique approach offers new insights into optimizing patient outcomes. Join us as we analyze the potential of this innovative method in transforming PCI practices.
Mastering Physiology in Left Main CAD: Essential Insights from DCB Academy – Bharat Khialani
An exclusive lesson on using physiology in Left Main Coronary Artery Disease. We introduce a unique algorithm aimed at improving clinical decision-making, explained through a compelling real-world case.
Expert Insights on Left Atrial Appendage Closure – Marco Frazzetto
Discover cutting-edge techniques and best practices in LAA closure with this expert-led session. Enhance your skills and stay ahead in cardiac care!
Mastering Physiology in CTO: A Comprehensive Session – Fabrizio Ugo
In this exclusive session at DCB Academy, Dr. Ugo, a leading expert in cardiovascular medicine, delves deep into the complex physiology of Chronic Total Occlusions (CTO), providing expert knowledge and advanced techniques that are essential for understanding and managing CTO cases.
Myocardial Reperfusion Injury – Sindhuri Gollamudi
Explore the mechanisms, impact, and treatment strategies for myocardial reperfusion injury, a key concept in heart attack recovery. Ideal for healthcare professionals seeking to deepen their cardiovascular knowledge.
Mastering the Art of Treating Atherosclerotic Vulnerable Plaque – Akiko Maehara
In this lesson, we dive deep into the latest strategies and techniques for effectively treating vulnerable plaque in atherosclerosis. Gain expert insights and elevate your cardiovascular care skills. Join DCB Academy now for exclusive insights!
Cath Lab Nightmares – Rima Chaddad
This lesson covered a common cath lab complication, known as severely calcified lesions. We discussed how these lesions can occur and the steps to prevent them. We also learned how to manage them immediately to avoid any further complications, based on a real-life case.
Angiographic and clinical impact of balloon inflation time in DCB PCI – Filippo Luca Gurguglione
This lesson delved into the findings of groundbreaking clinical trials that examined the impact of inflation time on drug-coated balloon (DCB) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with sirolimus. These studies explored the effects of different inflation times on angiographic outcomes and clinical efficacy, providing valuable insights for future treatment protocols.
Percutaneus coronary intervention of Aorto-ostial lesions – Jegan Sivalingam
This lesson provided a comprehensive overview of PCI for aortoostial lesions. We learned about the prevalence of this condition, its underlying pathophysiology, and the methods used for diagnosis and management. Furthermore, we gained valuable insights on how to successfully implement a stent in this type of lesion.
Retrograde CTO PCI – Sandeep Basavarajaiah
This lesson covered how to perform Retrograde CTO PCI, a procedure used to treat chronic total occlusions in the heart. We discussed the best techniques and provided real life case examples to illustrate the procedure.
Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) – Khaled Hamada
This lesson covered spontaneous coronary dissection, a rare and often life-threatening condition. We discussed the risk factors that can increase the likelihood of this condition, as well as the various methods used for diagnosis and management. Furthermore, we delved into the technical aspects of emergency revascularization and the use of antiplatelet therapy in treating this condition.
Cath Lab Nightmares – Rima Chaddad
In this lesson, we covered one of the common cath lab nightmares complications: stent loss. We discussed how stent loss can occur, the potential reasons behind it, and how to immediately manage it in order to prevent serious complications.
Physiology guided non-culprit PCI in ACS/STEMI – Bharat Khialani
This lesson provided a comprehensive understanding of Physiology guided non-culprit PCI in ACS/STEMI. We learned about the importance of considering non-culprit lesions in patients with acute coronary syndrome or ST-elevation myocardial infarction and the appropriate timing and methods for treatment. Additionally, we discussed the potential benefits and limitations of using physiological parameters to guide non-culprit PCI.
Mechanical Thrombectomy in Pulmonary Embolism – Leontin Lazar
This lesson covered the procedure of mechanical thrombectomy. We also reviewed several clinical trials that have evaluated the effectiveness of this technique and discussed various approaches and methods used in performing mechanical thrombectomy. By showcasing real world cases and discussing various techniques, we gained a better understanding of this important medical procedure.
Role of physiology in coronary revascularization – Krupal
Physiology is essential for diagnosing and treating cardiovascular patients. In this lesson, we demonstrated the role of physiology in coronary revascularization.
Critical Thinking in Cardiology – Bharat Khialani
Critical Thinking in Cardiology is a specific type of DCB Academy lesson designed to address current debate topics using critical thinking strategies. During this lesson, we discussed the concept of physiology-guided non-culprit PCI in cases of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). We explored the question of whether or not it is necessary to treat non-culprit lesions in these situations, and if so, when and how this treatment should be approached.
Current data on correct DAPT duration after coronary stenting – Felice Gragnano
Dr. Felice Gragnano expertly discussed the current data on the appropriate duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after coronary stenting. He delved into the benefits and potential risks of extending or shortening DAPT duration, with a focus on high-risk patients.
Antegrade CTO Techniques – Muhammad Waqas
This lesson thoroughly addressed the antegrade CTO technique, providing detailed instructions on how to perform it, as well as real-world examples to support the learning. Additionally, strategies were discussed on how to efficiently execute the technique to achieve optimal results.
When a Complex Lesion is Not Your Biggest Problem – Sylvia Ivanczyk
Cath Lab Nightmares is a specific type of DCB Academy lesson that addresses common complications of the catheterization lab. In this lesson, titled “When a Complex Lesion is Not Your Biggest Problem,” we discussed a challenging real-world case and how it was successfully managed.
SGLT2 inhibitors – Jacinthe Khater
SGLT2 inhibitors have been found to have a potential role in the treatment of cardiovascular disease, as they have a multisystem action. However, it is important to identify and understand the potential advantages and disadvantages of using these drugs in the context of cardiovascular diseases. This lesson aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current evidence and trials surrounding the use of SGLT2 inhibitors in the treatment of cardiovascular disease, highlighting their role and potential impact on patient outcomes.
How to treat underexpanded stents – Wojciech Wanha
Stent underexpansion is a serious complication that can occur during percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) and can increase the risk of in-stent restenosis and stent thrombosis. Treatment options for stent underexpansion are limited and include high-pressure balloon angioplasty or the use of new methods such as intravascular lithotripsy (IVL). This lesson will cover the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of stent underexpansion, as well as provide a comprehensive review of current clinical evidence on this issue.
Critical Thinking in Cardiology session – Sandeep Basavarajaiah
Chronic total occlusion (CTO) interventions are considered to be one of the most complex and high-risk procedures in the modern cardiac catheterization lab. These interventions have been linked to procedural complications and poor long-term outcomes. This is due to the challenges involved in diagnosing and treating CTO lesions, which can be difficult even for experienced interventional cardiologists. To address this issue, the Complex CTO and Higher Risk PCI lesson offers a comprehensive update on the most complex CTO procedures, using real-world cases and a critical thinking framework to discuss the best possible diagnosis and therapeutic approaches.
Coronary artery aneurysm and ectesia – Sylvia Ivanczyk
Despite being a silent disorder, coronary artery aneurysms (CAA) and coronary ectasia pose a significant challenge for clinicians to manage. These conditions are typically discovered incidentally during coronary angiography, but if left untreated, can lead to life-threatening complications such as rupture. The purpose of this lesson is to provide a clear definition of these disorders, discuss the methods of diagnosis, and review current research projects aimed at improving management strategies for these cases.
Complex PCI cases – Krupal
With the increasing prevalence of comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, PCI cases are becoming more complex and may carry an elevated risk of complications or failure. It is important for healthcare professionals to stay informed and updated on the latest techniques and strategies for managing these complex cases. This lesson aims to provide a thorough review of two complex real-world PCI cases in order to explore the best possible diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.
Cath Lab nightmares: Coronary perforations – Rima Chaddad
Coronary artery perforation (CAP) is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication that can occur during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This complication can lead to serious consequences such as cardiac tamponade, cardiogenic shock, heart attack, and even death if not treated promptly. It is important to note that even low-risk perforations can have poor outcomes, highlighting the seriousness of this complication. Managing a coronary perforation can be challenging and requires constant monitoring of the patient’s hemodynamic status while attempting to seal the perforation. This lesson aims to provide a thorough understanding of coronary perforation, including its definition, management, and prevention.
Cath lab nightmares: Stent dislodgement – Rima Chaddad
Stent dislodgement is a serious issue that requires prompt action to avoid potential life-threatening consequences. It is important for medical professionals to be aware of this complication and have strategies in place to address it. This lesson will explore a specific case involving stent dislodgement and discuss the best possible strategies for retrieval and deployment in order to mitigate the risks and ensure the safety of the patient.
How to manage complex transradial interventions – Chao -Wei Hwang
Anomalous coronary vessel lesions can be both benign and life-threatening. While they may be an incidental finding, they can also predispose patients to serious conditions such as myocardial ischemia or arrhythmias. The treatment of these lesions is controversial and can be complex and challenging due to the intricate nature of the anomaly and its potential adverse impact. In this lesson, we will explore the definition, diagnosis, and various surgical management options available for treating anomalous coronary vessel lesions, as well as the challenges associated with these interventions.
All you need to know about microvascular disease – Sylvia Ivanczyk
While microvascular dysfunction can lead to serious adverse consequences, an accurate diagnosis can help physicians to better tailor treatment strategies and improve patient outcomes. Treatment for these conditions can vary depending on the underlying cause, but can be effective in a large majority of cases. In this lesson, we will delve into the definition, diagnosis, and treatment options for microvascular dysfunction in order to provide a comprehensive understanding of this condition.