Stories from Switzerland

A medical device known as 'Cardioband' was used on patients with mitral valve regurgitation despite never undergoing animal testing. The device was reportedly used in minimally invasive procedures as an alternative to open-heart surgery.

The Swiss federal government announced that physical service books for the Swiss Army and civil protection will be phased out after nearly 150 years. The physical booklets will be replaced by a digital document starting in early June.

Environmental groups are calling for urgent action regarding water quality in Switzerland.

Dozens of deaths have reportedly occurred at the heart clinic located in the University Park. Three members of the University Hospital Zurich board resigned following an expert report regarding the hospital's heart clinic. The report addressed mortality rates and clinical standards at the facility. André Zemp stated that the Zurich heart clinic currently meets standard quality requirements. He noted that the mortality rate remains below the European average. The hospital will now implement regular and consistent reviews of staff interests and secondary employment. Between 2016 and 2020, the probe identified 11 unexpected deaths and 64 other unexpected outcomes. The findings were discussed with Thierry Garel, a cardiac surgeon at University Hospital Basel and professor at the University of Zurich.

Pronatura, WWF, and the Swiss Fishing Federation have called on Swiss authorities to take urgent action regarding water quality and ecosystem health. The groups are demanding measures to ensure free fish circulation and the restoration of sediment transport.

American filmmaker Darren Aronofsky will receive a Leopard of Honor at the 79th Locarno Film Festival. The ceremony is scheduled for August 14 on the Piazza Grande. Aronofsky is recognized as a director and screenwriter.

The broadcasting rights for the FIFA World Cup have been acquired for 1.8 billion Yuan.

The broadcasting rights for the FIFA World Cup have been acquired for 1.8 billion yuan.

A Swiss canton is providing aid for vine uprooting.

The Valais canton in Switzerland is providing financial aid for uprooting vineyards due to an ongoing viticulture crisis. Support includes 7,500 francs per hectare for flat terrain and gentle slopes, and 16,500 francs per hectare for steep slopes.