Contemporary Topics in SCAD

SCAD, also known as Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection, is defined as a tear in an artery wall within the heart, which decreases blood flow to the heart. In addition, patients without treatment are at risk of having a heart attack or chances of experiencing cardiac arrest. 90% of SCAD cases were found in women. However, men can also experience SCAD. Some triggers that can lead to SCAD are intense weightlifting, severe high blood pressure, emotional stress, and more.

Joining us today to discuss Contemporary Topics in SCAD is Marysia S. Tweet, M.D., M.S associate professor of medicine and consultant in the Division of Ischemic Heart Disease as well as joint appointment in the Division of Cardiovascular Ultrasound at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

Specific topics discussed:
• What do you tell patients when they ask will SCAD happen again?
• How do you advise regarding exercise after SCAD?
• What do you tell women of childbearing age regarding future pregnancy after SCAD?