Interventional Cardiology

Interventional cardiology is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedures to improve the function of the heart. These interventional cardiac and vascular services are alternatives to traditional open-heart surgery. This means patients who undergo interventional cardiology procedures often have faster recovery times, less discomfort, and fewer complications. In fact, patients can stand up and walk immediately after their heart catherization procedures, while open-heart surgery patients must lie flat for up to 6 hours.

Examples of interventional cardiology procedures includes:

• Angioplasty: This procedure is used to widen narrowed arteries clogged with a fatty buildup substance called plaque. A balloon catheter (narrow plastic tube) is inserted through the artery, and the balloon is then inflated to compress the arterial plaque that is narrowing the flow of blood. This lifesaving procedure is minimally invasive and offers the advantage of a quick recovery.
• Stent placement: Stents are expandable tubes used to open arterial blockages and keep them open to help maintain normal blood flow. A catheter is passed through the leg or arm artery via a needle or small incision, which is then guided to the blockage.

Learn more about our Cardiology Department at UK St. Claire. Contact us at St. Claire Medical Pavilion at 606.780.5500.