What is Interventional Cardiology?

Interventional cardiology is a specialized branch of medical science that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of heart conditions through minimally invasive procedures. Interventional cardiologists use tools like catheters to perform procedures such as angioplasty, stenting, and atherectomy, which help restore blood flow and treat blocked arteries. At Lake Charles Memorial, we have a dedicated team of experienced interventional cardiologists who are committed to providing top-quality care and support to our patients.

The Role and Training of an Interventional Cardiologist

So, what does an interventional cardiologist do? An interventional cardiologist plays a pivotal role in managing and treating conditions like coronary artery disease, heart valve disorders, and structural heart abnormalities. While general cardiologists primarily diagnose and manage cardiovascular diseases through medication and lifestyle changes, interventional cardiologists directly treat these conditions through minimally invasive procedures.

To become an interventional cardiologist, a medical professional must undergo extensive training beyond their general cardiology education. This includes a specialized fellowship program that lasts 2-3 years, during which they gain hands-on experience performing interventional procedures under the guidance of seasoned physicians.

Thanks to the cutting-edge techniques used in this field, invasive cardiology has revolutionized heart disease treatment, providing safer alternatives to traditional open-heart surgeries and improving patient outcomes.

Conditions Treated and Procedures Performed

Interventional cardiologists diagnose and treat a variety of cardiovascular conditions, such as coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, and peripheral artery disease. They use minimally invasive procedures to improve heart health, reduce recovery time, and minimize risks. 

Common procedures performed by interventional cardiologists include:

• Angioplasty: A procedure that uses a balloon-tipped catheter to widen narrowed or blocked arteries.
• Stenting: The insertion of a small mesh tube, or stent, during angioplasty to keep the artery open and prevent it from narrowing again.
• Atherectomy: The removal of plaque buildup from artery walls using a specialized catheter.

These professionals use various diagnostic tests, such as cardiac catheterization, coronary angiography, and echocardiography, to evaluate heart health and identify potential issues.

Patient Care and Support

Interventional cardiologists play a crucial role in providing comprehensive patient care. They specialize in performing a wide range of procedures using advanced techniques and imaging technologies. The goal is to ensure that patients receive the best possible treatment for their heart conditions. They work closely with a multidisciplinary team to ensure patients receive comprehensive care throughout their treatment journey. This team approach addresses patients' physical and emotional needs, providing guidance and support at every step of the process.

Beyond patient care, interventional cardiologists also contribute to clinical trials and research, helping to advance medical knowledge and improve future treatment outcomes. This commitment to research ensures that patients receive the most innovative and effective treatments available in cardiology interventional field.

Patients who are in need of interventional cardiology care can call Memorial's Heart and Vascular Center to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ahmad Awan, Dr. Edward Bergen, Dr. Karl Duncan, Dr. Kurt Duncan, Dr. Christopher Thompson, and Dr. Kevin Young.