What is Interventional Cardiology?
Interventional Cardiology is a subspecialty of cardiology that uses minimally invasive procedures to diagnose and treat cardiovascular disease. An interventional cardiologist is a doctor who specializes in the treatment of diseases of the heart and blood vessels through the use of catheters, stents, and other devices. Interventional cardiologists perform procedures such as angioplasty, stent placement, and atherectomy to open blocked or narrowed blood vessels, improve blood flow, and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Do I need an Interventional Cardiology procedure?
If you have any of the following symptoms, you may be a candidate for an interventional cardiology procedure: chest pain, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or dizziness. Your doctor will assess your symptoms and medical history and decide if an interventional cardiology procedure is right for you. Your doctor may also order tests such as an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) or a stress test to determine the best course of action.