Share:

If you or a loved one has an interventional cardiology procedure coming up, you most likely have many questions. DiVagno Interventional Cardiology, MD PA in Rochelle Park, NJ, is dedicated to providing patients with all the information they need to make decisions about their heart health. One of the most common interventional cardiology procedures is angioplasty, via cardiac catheterization and stent.

Read on to find out the answers to frequently asked questions regarding this procedure:

  • Why Might I Need This Procedure? Cardiac catheterization angioplasty and stent is commonly performed for patients suffering from atherosclerosis, in which the arteries harden. This can be located in the arteries, veins, and capillaries outside of the heart (known as peripheral arterial disease) and is a degenerative condition that, if left untreated, will worsen. It can also affect arteries within the heart, causing coronary artery disease, which is a threat to the heart’s function, causing things such as congestive heart failure.
  • How Can I Prepare? Your doctor will perform a thorough health check, cardiac screening, and diagnoses prior to any procedure. If you’re a good candidate for interventional cardiology treatment, you will have to undergo blood tests and an electrocardiogram on the day of the intervention. You will also have to fast for six to eight hours prior to the procedure. Your doctor can advise you more specifically regarding preparatory steps.
  • What Does The Procedure Entail? First, you’ll be given a sedative to ensure your comfort. Then, in a catheterization laboratory, you’ll receive a small incision, usually in the groin, neck, or forearm. From here, a tiny tube is inserted into the artery or vein, followed by a catheter (approximately two to three millimeters in diameter) that threads through this tube. A special dye is injected into the catheter to highlight any blockages in the artery or vein. A special tool is then used to remove any blockage; in some cases, a stent will be placed to help prevent regrowth of blockage-causing plaque and keep the vein or artery open.

If you would like to know more about cardiac catheterization angioplasty and stent, the cardiologists at DiVagno Interventional Cardiology, MD PA in Rochelle Park, NJ, can help. This team of board certified cardiovascular physicians specializes in diagnoses and treatment of an array of cardiovascular problems. You can call (201) 845-3535 to find out more or to make an appointment.

SaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSave

tracking