SCAI Guidewire provides on-site coverage of key late-breaking clinical trials presented at major cardiology conferences, highlighting the studies most relevant to interventional cardiologists and the evolving practice of cardiovascular medicine.

Below are key studies from SCAI 2026 Scientific Sessions & CAIC-ACCI Summit:

Can Escalation Reduce Acute Myocardial Infarction Mortality in Cardiogenic Shock (CERAMICS)

CERAMICS evaluated a standardized, protocol-driven approach to AMI-related cardiogenic shock centered on early Impella support, invasive hemodynamic monitoring, and defined escalation pathways. The study reported 71% overall survival to discharge, with higher survival in earlier-stage shock, reinforcing the importance of early recognition and appropriate shock care.

Outcomes of Mitral Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair in Patients with Mitral Annular Calcification

This study showed that mitral TEER achieved similar procedural safety and mitral regurgitation reduction in patients with and without mitral annular calcification. However, patients with MAC experienced higher rates of heart failure hospitalization and 1-year mortality.

Clinical Outcomes of Blood Return During Continuous Aspiration Mechanical Thrombectomy for Pulmonary Embolism: Full Comparative Safety and Efficacy Analysis from ENGULF

This full comparative safety and efficacy analysis from ENGULF assessed continuous aspiration mechanical thrombectomy for intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism, including use of the Hēlo Blood Return System. The system demonstrated reduced blood loss and improved procedural efficiency.

Altavalve Early Feasibility Study: One-Year Outcomes with Atrial Fixation Transcatheter Mitral Valve Replacement

The AltaValve early feasibility study demonstrated the performance of a novel atrial-fixation TMVR system in patients with severe mitral regurgitation who are not candidates for surgery or TEER. At 1 year, results showed durable MR reduction, preserved ventricular function, minimal LVOT obstruction, and a favorable safety profile.

6-Month Outcomes of the CARPOOL Study: Radial-to-Peripheral Versus Femoral Access in Lower Extremity PAD Revascularization

CARPOOL compared radial-to-peripheral access with common femoral artery access for lower extremity PAD intervention. While technical success was clinically noninferior, radial access was associated with higher 6-month major adverse limb events, driven primarily by repeat revascularization.

Lipoprotein(a) Identifies Residual Cardiovascular Risk in NIH Randomized Trials

This study found that elevated Lp(a) remained a significant predictor of major adverse cardiovascular events even in well-characterized randomized trial populations. Levels greater than 175 mg/dL were associated with risk approaching that of active tobacco use, reinforcing its role in residual risk assessment.

Sirolimus Eluting Balloons for Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome: Evidence from the SELUTION Denovo Trial

This study compared a drug-eluting balloon strategy with drug-eluting stents in patients with NSTEMI or unstable angina. At 1 year, rates of target vessel failure were low and similar between groups, with no major safety concerns and comparable rates of cardiac death, myocardial infarction, and repeat revascularization.

SCAI Guidewire Coverage Team for SCAI 2026 Scientific Sessions

Clinical writers: Lyndon C. Box, MD, FSCAI; Brian C. Kolski, MD; Jordan Safirstein, MD, FSCAI; Matthew Sample, MD, FSCAI

Reviewer: Jordan Safirstein, MD, FSCAI

Editor: Gavin Stern, MPH, MS