Interventional Cardiology is an advanced field of cardiology that uses minimally invasive techniques to diagnose and treat a variety of congenital and acquired heart diseases. Interventional cardiology utilizes the vessels of the body to perform procedures. The vessels in the body are connected to the heart, thus the heart can be directly accessed via vessels in the neck or legs. Catheters and wires can be passed through these vessels and are used to treat cardiac abnormalities. Procedures are performed using fluoroscopy, or live-motion x-ray, for visualization of the catheters and the heart. These procedures are performed with a minimally invasive approach via a small incision, allowing for less discomfort and shorter recovery times.
Pets with congenital and acquired cardiac anomalies can have a reduced life span. These techniques allow us to treat pets with heart disease and help them lead normal lives. These procedures require highly trained veterinary specialists, staff, and advanced technology necessary to diagnose cardiac anomalies and perform minimally invasive, catheter-based interventions.
Generally, heart and major vessel surgery require a surgical opening of the chest. Interventional Cardiology only requires a small incision over one of the peripheral vessels.
Patients experience minimal pain or discomfort, have a shorter recovery time, and have a lower risk of complications.
