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Recent Developments

Research Activities

Driving Global Innovation in Cardiac Care

At Pulse Cardiac Care, we are proud to be part of a globally connected research network committed to advancing cardiovascular medicine. In collaboration with Townsville University Hospital, we actively support and promote cutting-edge research that brings the latest scientific breakthroughs to our patients.

We are currently participating in several high-impact clinical trials, including:

  • EZ-EF – Investigating a novel therapy aimed at reducing Lipoprotein(a) levels, a key contributor to cardiovascular risk for which traditional statins do not work, and elevated LpA causes extensive cholesterol deposition in young people.
  • ARTEMIS – Exploring the role of Zelvektimab a novel injectable anti inflammatory agent in patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS).
  • HERMES – Focused on improving outcomes for patients with Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF) by use of novel anti-inflammatory agents like Zelvektimab.
Figure 1. "The Growing Anti-Inflammatory Armamentarium to Combat Cardiovascular Disease". Reproduced from Novel Therapeutics and Upcoming Clinical Trials Targeting Inflammation in Cardiovascular Diseases. Source: https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/ATVBAHA.124.319980

Dr. Udaya Prashant Ponangi: Excellence in Complex Coronary Interventions

Dr. Udaya Prashant Ponangi is a highly accomplished interventional cardiologist with expertise spanning the full spectrum of cardiovascular care—from managing heart failure and common cardiac conditions to performing some of the most advanced and technically demanding procedures in the field.

His interventional skillset includes:

  • iFR (Instantaneous Wave-Free Ratio) – a modern, non-hyperemic technique for assessing coronary lesion severity
  • IVUS (Intravascular Ultrasound) – enabling precise visualization and optimization of stent deployment
  • Shockwave Balloon Angioplasty – a cutting-edge solution for treating calcified coronary lesions using acoustic wave technology
  • CTO Techniques – specialized approaches for chronic total occlusions, restoring blood flow in previously inaccessible arteries
  • Primary Angioplasty – rapid, life-saving intervention for acute myocardial infarction
  • Management of High Thrombus Burden Lesions – using advanced strategies to minimize complications and improve outcomes
  • Prevention and Treatment of No-Reflow Phenomenon – employing pharmacologic and mechanical techniques to preserve microvascular perfusion during PCI

Dr. Ponangi has also conducted extensive research on coronary graft interventions, particularly in cases traditionally considered technically challenging. His work has contributed to evolving best practices and expanding treatment options for patients with complex post-CABG anatomy.

With a commitment to innovation, precision, and patient-centered care, Dr. Ponangi continues to lead the way in delivering world-class interventional cardiology across North Queensland.

Source: https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/12/23/7246#

Expertise in Rare and Complex Cardiovascular Conditions

Dr. Udaya Prashant Ponangi brings specialized expertise in diagnosing and managing a wide spectrum of rare and complex cardiovascular disorders. His advanced training and clinical experience allow him to provide tailored care for patients with conditions that often require nuanced evaluation and multidisciplinary management.

Some of the examples include:

  • Athlete’s Heart – distinguishing physiological adaptations from pathological changes in elite and recreational athletes
  • Microvascular Angina – managing coronary microvascular dysfunction with advanced imaging and targeted therapies
  • Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) – offering comprehensive autonomic assessment and individualized treatment plans
  • Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HHOCM) – including obstructive variants requiring precision-guided interventions
  • Rare Cardiomyopathies – such as arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, restrictive cardiomyopathy, and infiltrative diseases
  • Heart Transplant and LVAD Care – long-term management of transplant recipients and patients with mechanical circulatory support
  • Undifferentiated Syncope – using advanced diagnostic tools to uncover hidden causes of unexplained fainting episodes

Dr. Ponangi’s commitment to excellence in rare cardiovascular medicine ensures that even the most complex cases receive expert, evidence-based care.

Aviation Cardiology & Specialist Pilot Assessments

Dr. Udaya Prashant Ponangi is a CASA-approved Aviation Consultant in Cardiology, having completed specialized training to assess cardiovascular fitness in pilots and aircrew. His expertise is tailored to meet the rigorous standards set by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and extends to high-performance organizations such as the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

With a deep understanding of the unique physiological demands of aviation and military service, Dr. Ponangi provides:

  • Comprehensive cardiovascular evaluations aligned with aviation and defense protocols
  • Risk assessment for arrhythmias, syncope, and structural heart disease in pilots and aircrew
  • Expert guidance on flight-readiness following cardiac events or procedures
  • Collaborative assessments for ADF personnel and other specialized aviation roles

Dr. Ponangi’s dual expertise in advanced cardiology and aviation medicine ensures that pilots, defense personnel, and aircrew receive precise, safety-focused evaluations that support operational readiness and long-term cardiovascular health.