Effective Treatment with Minimal Scarring

Interventional cardiology is a branch of cardiology that specifically utilizes catheter-based forms of treatment. While these forms of treatment are invasive, the patient is benefited greatly by experiencing minimal pain and shorter recovery periods, and, because only a needle stick is required for the catheter, there is a lack of any outwardly visible scars as a result. In most cases a general anesthetic is not needed although sedation is provided, and many patients report relief of their symptoms almost immediately. While invasive/interventional cardiology is not appropriate for every patient or situation, this form of therapy can be used to treat a variety of conditions.

When is Interventional Cardiology Used?

This type of cardiology is typically used in the treatment of disease occurring in the coronary arteries. The physicians at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates will first diagnose your condition through thorough history taking, physical examination, and non-invasive methods, and, if required, may proceed to a test called cardiac catheterization. This procedure helps the physician define the degree of disease present in your coronary arteries, checks the pumping action of the heart, and checks the functionality of the heart valves. This test assists your physician in determining whether further invasive/interventional techniques are needed, such as angioplasty or stenting.

What are the Available Treatments?

Coronary Angioplasty and Stenting

During angioplasty, a small balloon is inflated within a blood vessel, widening it and improving blood flow. When necessary, a device called a stent, which is essentially a metal mesh, is placed inside the vessel and inflated to keep it open and promote the continuation of healthy blood flow. The physicians at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates are well versed in the use of all advanced techniques necessary to achieve the desired goal of opening up the blood vessels.