The Cath Lab Digest Buyers Guide

In general, do we have too many choices at the store? Speaking as someone who has seen her significant other paralyzed in the toothpaste aisle, I would say, well, sometimes. At least in the cath lab, clinical trial data can guide some choices, unlike those shoppers deciding between Crest and Colgate. Yet cath lab professionals often find themselves enmeshed in a similar struggle, searching for definitive answers on the right product or device. It’s tough and the consequences are much greater than when we’re choosing toothpaste. Increased inventory costs, frustrated physicians...I’m already shuddering. Fortunately, Cath Lab Digest has a new and improved Buyers Guide this year. The size of the text is actually readable! The organization of products is clear and well-defined! You’re going to love it, but better yet, you’re going to repeatedly refer to it. That makes us happy. But before we congratulate ourselves too much, I should say that I welcome your comments on how to continue improving this invasive cardiology guide to the marketplace. Is a company missing that should be included? Does a product category need to be added? If so, please email us at cathlabdigest@aol.com to express your outrage. This month, we’re featuring one of the top hospitals in the country, Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, New York, as our spotlighted cath lab. I’m also pleased to introduce a Boston Scientific-sponsored, monthly Q & A column that will focus on your questions about drug-eluting stents. Answer expert Dr. Albert Raizner thoughtfully responds beginning on page 18. Cath Lab Digest also shares information on speaking out during the CMS coding cycle and offers advice on successfully designing a cath lab (going beyond the standard Pray for me!). Enjoy! Rebecca Yospyn Managing Editor cathlabdigest@aol.com

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