Interventional Cardiology

Interventional cardiology treats heart conditions through thin tubes (catheters) passed through an artery, usually in the wrist or groin, without open surgery. The most common procedure is angioplasty, in which a blocked artery is opened with a balloon and a stent.

In a heart attack, opening the blocked artery within hours saves heart muscle, so emergency access to a cath lab matters. Interventional cardiologists also treat valve narrowing, close holes in the heart and treat blocked leg arteries. After a stent, regular medicines and risk-factor control are essential.

This page is general information, not medical advice. Fees, availability and outcomes vary by doctor and hospital.