Interventional Cardiology
In some cases, heart disease can be treated using minimally invasive interventional cardiology techniques that use a catheter (thin, flexible tube) inserted into the arteries. The catheter is guided to the heart to open blocked arteries and improve blood flow. These advanced techniques are performed on an outpatient basis and offer a non-surgical alternative to treat many heart conditions.
Interventional cardiology begins in the cardiac catheterization lab with a skilled cardiac team, led by a board-certified interventional cardiologist, and involves diagnostic procedures as well as interventional procedures.
Diagnostic procedures involve images of the heart, while interventional procedures deal with opening blockages in the arteries to allow better blood flow.
The interventional cardiology program allows us to remove blockages without opening the chest, which may mean a faster recovery and less trauma or anxiety for patients.
Our interventional cardiology services include:
- Cardiac catheterization, including radial artery catheterization
- Echocardiography
- Electrocardiogram
- Fractional flow reserve (FFR)
- Intra-aortic balloon pumping
- Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS)
- Percutaneous intervention
- Pericardiocentesis
- Stress testing
- Temporary pacemaker
- Transesophageal echocardiography