If you’ve recently discovered you have a heart-related health issue, you may have to undergo an interventional cardiology procedure. While it might sound daunting, the truth is, interventional cardiology is actually beneficial for patients because it allows doctors to get a better idea of a patient’s condition in a way that’s as minimally invasive as possible. The cardiac care professionals from DiVagno Interventional Cardiology, MD PA in Rochelle Park, NJ, are here to provide more information about this useful cardiology testing technique.

Before having an interventional procedure, you’ll go over your medical history and receive a physical exam from your doctor. You’ll also need to undergo blood tests and an electrocardiogram (EKG), and your heart doctor may ask you to fast before the interventional cardiology procedure.  

Once it’s time for the procedure, you’ll be prepped and receive light sedation, as well as an intravenous line with medication. A medical professional will clean the insertion area (typically the neck, groin, or forearm) and administer a local anesthetic to numb it. Then, a small incision will be made and a sheath will be inserted through the artery. A catheter will then be passed through and make its way into a coronary artery. During the interventional cardiology procedure, a dye will be injected to show any blockages so the doctor can see where the problem is located.

Typically, patients may experience mild chest pains while the procedure takes place. After it’s complete, pressure will be applied to the area so the artery closes back to its normal state. The doctor or nurse will tell you how to lay to allow for proper blood clotting, but advanced technology has allowed doctors to close holes made in arteries quickly and efficiently, resulting in minimal recovery time. Most often, patients can begin walking again within several hours.

The professional team at DiVagno Interventional Cardiology, MD PA is experienced, skilled, and has leading technology to perform interventional cardiology procedures with the utmost care and precision. The doctors and staff will be happy to answer any questions you have, so feel free to call them at (201) 845-3535. You can also visit the practice’s website for more information.