Interventional cardiology is a branch of cardiac specialty that deals specifically with less invasive, catheter-based diagnosis and treatment of various structural heart diseases and conditions. Using specialized imaging and other diagnostic techniques, an Interventional cardiologist can evaluate blood flow and pressure in the coronary arteries and chambers of the heart, as well as treat such conditions like heart valve disorder, congenital heart disease, vascular disease, acquired structural heart disease, and other abnormalities that affect the function of the cardiovascular system. An interventional cardiologist is highly specialized and skilled in the prevention of heart disease, as well as complications that can arise such as stroke and heart failure.
Patients should seek the care of interventional cardiologists if they are experiencing symptoms or conditions such as chest, shoulder, arm, neck, or jaw pain, dizziness, palpitations, or your heart is racing, passing out, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest.
What Does an Interventional Cardiologist Do?
During an interventional cardiology procedure, your doctor will perform many different practices, depending on the patient. Typically, your interventional cardiologist will:
- Evaluate your medical history
- Educate you about heart health and disease prevention
- Perform a physical exam, where he will check blood pressure and vital signs.
- Order lab testing or additional imaging studies.
- Prescribe medication
- Diagnosis and treat diseases and conditions
- Performs procedures like Cardiac Catheterization, PFO Closure, and Balloon Angioplasty/Stent Implantation
If you live in Jenkintown and are wondering why you should make an appointment for an interventional cardiology procedure, here are a few smart reasons:
- You will experience less pain and scarring. Interventional cardiology is less invasive and non-surgical. Typically, the procedure requires a tiny incision to insert the catheter and only takes about 30 minutes to complete.
- You will have a quick recovery. Because you’re not receiving a surgical procedure, your recovery time is significantly shorter. This is an outpatient procedure and you do not have to stay in the hospital after the operation.
- It can help decrease the risk of a heart attack. Not only can your doctor pinpoint what is wrong, but symptoms can also be relieved, helping to decrease the risk of a heart attack.
- Treatment is generally less expensive. Interventional cardiology is more cost-effective than surgical heart procedures.
What Conditions Does Interventional Cardiology Treat?
Common conditions of the heart and major blood vessels that interventional cardiology treats include:
- Angina
- Arrhythmia
- Cardiomyopathy
- Atrial fibrillation
- Congenital heart defects and disease
- Coronary artery disease
- Heart attack
- Heart failure
- Heart valve disorders and heart valvular disease
- Myocarditis
Where to Receive Interventional Cardiology in Jenkintown
At AMS Cardiology, we are one of the most respected cardiologist groups in the Greater Philadelphia area. We treat every patient with the respect, empathy, and professionalism that they deserve. Our friendly, accessible staff uses the latest, state of the art equipment to provide remarkable care for our patients. Through our effective procedures, treatments, and innovations we hope to always deliver the best for our patients, with consistent, safe, and high-quality clinical care. To learn more, or schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, contact us today or call us at 215-517-1000.