Invasive-Interventional Cardiology Services

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What Is Invasive-Interventional Cardiology?

Invasive interventional cardiology is a specialized branch of cardiology that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases using minimally invasive procedures.

Cardiologists who specialize in this field, known as interventional cardiologists, use catheters (thin, flexible tubes) and other advanced medical devices to access the heart and blood vessels through small incisions or puncture sites in the skin. These minimally invasive techniques often result in faster recovery times, reduced hospital stays, and improved outcomes compared to traditional surgical approaches, making invasive-interventional cardiology a cornerstone of modern cardiac care.

Conditions Invasive-Interventional Cardiology Treats

  • Coronary Artery Disease (CAD):

    • Angina (chest pain)
    • Acute coronary syndrome (heart attack)

  • Structural Heart Disease

    • Aortic stenosis
    • Mitral valve regurgitation
    • Congenital heart defects in adults

  • Peripheral Vascular Disease:

    • Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
    • Carotid artery disease

  • Congenital Heart Defects (in some cases)

    • Heart failure (in certain situations)

  • Heart Valve Diseases:

    • Aortic valve stenosis
    • Mitral valve prolapse

  • Cardiomyopathies:

    • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
    • Dilated cardiomyopathy

  • Arrhythmias

    • Atrial fibrillation (AFib)
    • Ventricular tachycardia

Invasive-Interventional Cardiology Procedures

Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI): Broad term encompassing all minimally invasive procedures to treat coronary artery disease.

    • Coronary Angioplasty (PTCA): Balloon angioplasty to open blocked or narrowed coronary arteries.
    • Coronary Stenting: Placement of a small mesh tube (stent) to keep coronary arteries open after angioplasty.
    • Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR): Measurement to assess the severity of narrowing in coronary arteries.
    • Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS): Imaging technique using a tiny ultrasound probe to visualize inside blood vessels.
    • Rotational Atherectomy: Procedure to remove plaque buildup in coronary arteries using a rotating burr.
    • Thrombectomy: Removal of blood clots from arteries, often in the context of acute myocardial infarction or stroke.
    • Balloon Valvuloplasty: Procedure to open narrowed heart valves using a balloon-tipped catheter.
  • Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR): Minimally invasive procedure to replace the aortic valve without open-heart surgery.

 

  • Mitral Valve Repair or Replacement: Techniques to repair or replace the mitral valve using catheter-based approaches.

 

  • Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) or Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) Closure: Closure of holes between heart chambers using devices delivered through catheters.

 

  • Left Atrial Appendage Closure (LAAC): Closure of the left atrial appendage to reduce stroke risk in patients with atrial fibrillation.

"Dr. Van and his staff in PCA are very efficient and patient with all the patients. They listen to you carefully and kindly. My husband and I are very comfortable with them.

I recommended Dr. van to my family and friends and they are very happy to choose them. Thank you all for your efficiency!!😊"

- Sholeh A.

"Dr. Chen made my mother’s visit very pleasant. He also gave us a lot of information with the news he had to give us. Very knowledgeable and easy to understand. Thank you Dr. Chen. The office was also very organized and the staff was very friendly ☺️"

- Maira G.

"Dr. Van is great. He explains things and is so uplifting. The technicians also were very efficient and kind."

"PCA is a fantastic place. Dr Chen, his nurse, & the staff, have all been so kind & helpful."

- Craig M.

"I've been under care for a number years with Dr. Van and PCA and their care is the best cardiac care you will find. They are attentive and keep close follow-up to care given. I always recommend PCA their team is the best."
- Darin C.

Invasive-Interventional Cardiology Frequently Asked Questions

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