INVASIVE CARDIOLOGY

(Click below for more information)

Diagnostic Cardiac Catheterization

An invasive test where tubes (catheters) are inserted into the heart via arteries and veins to record pressures, obtain blood samples and inject dye to visualize the structures of the heart. This is done by trained specialists. From this study, the extent of cardiac disease can be accurately assessed and treatment plans thereby established.

Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty (PTCA)

A form of catheterization where a narrowed artery is dilated (made larger) via an expanding balloon which is attached to the catheter.

Artery Stent Placement

A catheter procedure where a metallic coil is inserted at an arterial blockage to expand this area. The stent will then remain in place to help prevent the artery from re-closing. This is done most often in the arteries of the heart (coronary). It can also be done in the neck (carotid), chest (subclavian), kidney (renal), pelvis (iliac), or thigh (femoral).

Endovascular Stenting

A covered stent used to repair an abdominal aneurysm without need for open surgery.

Directional Coronary Atherectomy (DCA)

A catheter procedure where the arterial blockage is removed directly from the artery by the catheter and a larger opening is thereby established.

Balloon Valvuloplasty

Using an expandable balloon to open up a narrowed valve.

Device Closure of Holes in the Cardiac Chambers

Via catheter, a patch is placed to close the hole in the heart.

Diagnostic Electrophysiologic Testing

A catheter procedure to analyze the heart rhythm and electrical activity.

Ablation of Cardiac Arrhythmias

An invasive catheter procedure which uses radio waves to treat certain arrhythmias (irregular heart beats). This procedure requires a specifically trained cardiologist.

Implantation of Permanent Pacemakers

A surgical procedure to permanently insert an electrical device (pacemaker) in the body, connected to the heart, to control the heart rate.

Implantation of Defibrillators (ICD)

A surgical procedure to permanently insert an electrical device (pacemaker) in the body, connected to the heart, to pace or shock an irregular heart beat back to normal.

Tilt Table Testing

A test designed to evaluate fainting and/or blackout spells.

Electrical Cardioversion

An in-hospital procedure where an electric shock (under appropriate anesthesia) is carefully delivered to the chest wall overlying the heart to normalize an irregular heart beat.