Interventional Cardiology
Interventional cardiology is a subspecialty within heart care that focuses on minimally invasive procedures that use a catheter. A catheter is a small, flexible tube that is inserted into a vein or artery via a small incision on the arm or wrist. Other technologies can be inserted through the catheter and introduced to the heart, blocked vessels and other structures of the body. Many interventional cardiology procedures focus on removing blockages and increasing blood flow.
Many interventional cardiology procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning that the incisions are small and most patients can go home the same day. Learn more about this non-surgical alternative below.
Cardiac Catheterization
The board-certified interventional cardiologists at Physicians Regional Healthcare System use a variety of catheter-assisted techniques to treat heart disease. These procedures may include:
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Diagnostic cardiac catheterization - It examines the heart with real-time X-ray (fluoroscopy); this allows doctors to measure blood pressure, blood flow, oxygen levels and more. Biopsies and blood samples can also be collected during this procedure.
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Angioplasty - A tiny balloon on the end of a catheter is inflated to compress plaque against the wall of the artery, thereby improving blood flow. Some angioplasties may involve a laser, which helps break up the plaque.
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Stent placement - A stent is a small mesh tube that can be permanently placed in an artery or vein to hold it open and improve blood flow. A stent placement is frequently done at the same time as angioplasty.
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Embolic protection - This device is used to capture and remove any debris, such as plaque, that may have become dislodged during an interventional procedure. Without this protection, embolic debris could create complications.
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Balloon valvuloplasty - This procedure widens heart valves that may have become narrowed by aortic valve stenosis.
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Peripheral stent placement lower extremities - A stent is placed in an artery or vein to hold it open and improve blood flow to the lower extremities.
Find a Heart Doctor Close to You
To find a cardiologist near you, contact one of our two locations in the Naples area. You can also find a provider online.
Call (239) 354-6000 | Collier Blvd
Call (239) 348-4000 | Pine Ridge