Dr. Shiavax Rao
Cardiology Fellow
1 Podcast on BackTable
Dr. Shiavax Rao is a cardiology fellow at Guthrie Hospitals in Sayre, Pennsylvania.
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Episode # 458 • 10 Jul 2026
The Golden Age of Pulmonary Embolism Randomized Controlled Trials
This episode examines the historical evidence behind systemic thrombolysis, the emergence of catheter-directed therapies and mechanical thrombectomy, and the landmark RCTs – STORM-PE, PEERLESS, HI-PEITHO, and PEERLESS II – that are reshaping intermediate-risk PE management. The discussion highlights challenges in PE trial design, the critical importance of clinical deterioration as an endpoint, and why this era represents an unprecedented wave of evidence generation in PE. Audio editing for this episode was performed by CardioNerds Intern, Dr. Julia Marques Fernandes.
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About
Originally from Toronto, Dr. Shiavax Rao earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Toronto and his medical degree from Saba University School of Medicine. He completed his residency at MedStar Health–Georgetown University in Baltimore. Dr. Rao was drawn to cardiology because of the field’s constantly evolving nature, driven by ongoing research, emerging evidence, and advances in preventive strategies, diagnostic tools, and treatment options. He also values that cardiology extends beyond the heart, encompassing the physical, emotional, and psychological effects that cardiovascular disease can have on patients and their families.
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