Summary

In this conversation, Dr. Sarah Zaman, an interventional cardiologist and SCAD researcher, discusses the complexities of spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD), particularly its prevalence in women. She explains the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment approaches for SCAD, emphasizing the importance of recognizing it as a serious condition that can lead to heart attacks. The discussion also covers the establishment of a SCAD registry, findings related to treatment outcomes, and the challenges faced in managing SCAD patients.

Takeaways

SCAD is a significant cause of heart attacks in women.

Diagnosis of SCAD can be challenging and requires careful assessment.

Emergency departments must treat young women with chest pain as potential heart attack patients.

The SCAD registry aims to improve understanding and treatment of the condition.

Type 2 SCAD is associated with worse outcomes compared to other types.

Strong blood thinners may exacerbate SCAD complications.

Conservative management is often effective for SCAD patients.

Intravascular imaging is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Women often present later to emergency departments with SCAD symptoms.

Research is ongoing to better understand SCAD and improve patient care.

USEFUL LINKS

https://scadresearch.com.au/

https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/for-professionals/fp-spontaneous-coronary-artery-dissection

Published paper by Sarah and team from the registry

https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/46/21/2012/8058673

Sound Bites

"90% of SCAD patients are female."

"SCAD is not related to atherosclerosis."

"We let the vessel heal by itself in SCAD cases."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to SCAD and Women's Heart Health

02:52 Understanding SCAD: Symptoms and Diagnosis

06:04 Emergency Response and Patient Journey

08:58 Angiogram Procedures and SCAD Types

11:50 Research Findings on SCAD Outcomes

14:57 Treatment Protocols and Medication Considerations

17:44 Interventional Strategies and Stenting in SCAD

31:02 Introduction to Cardiac Conversations

31:03 Understanding Cardiac Health