Key Points about Interventional Cardiology for Heart Disease
- Interventional cardiology is a non-surgical way of treating narrowed arteries, weakened blood vessels, or other damaged parts of the heart.
- Interventional cardiology procedures usually involve shorter hospital stays and recovery times.
Overview
Interventional cardiology improves circulation and works with heart valves to remove any narrowing or blockages. Generally, procedures have shorter hospital stays and less time recovering.
Candidates for interventional cardiology for heart disease
Interventional cardiology is often used to in a variety of procedures, but commonly used with patients who suffer from three conditions:
- Coronary artery disease
- Peripheral vascular disease
- Heart valve disease
Preparing for interventional cardiology for heart disease
Someone will call you before your cardiology exam to give you information and instructions surrounding your specific procedure. It’s important to tell them about any medications you’re taking as well as any allergies you have.
If you are taking any blood thinners, or have any chronic medical conditions, inform them immediately.
If you are going to be given a sedative during the procedure, you may not be able to eat or drink for 6-8 hours beforehand.
Women should always inform their physician or X-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant or if they are nursing.
Expectations during interventional cardiology for heart disease
You will prepare for the exam with the team of medical professionals in a “pre-op” area. The preparations may include:
- Getting an IV with fluid or medication
- Having your blood pressure taken
- Getting lab work done
You may be asked to come in a few hours before your appointment to make sure there is enough time to complete the “pre-op” testing.