Interventional Cardiology

Interventional cardiology procedures involve the use of thin, flexible tubes called catheters to diagnose and repair damaged vessels and other heart structures. This interventional approach means you can often avoid a traditional surgical procedure. Interventional procedures usually result in less scarring, a shorter hospital stay, and a quicker recovery for most patients.

In partnership with the Tulane University Heart and Vascular Institute, our physicians and staff have extensive experience with minimally invasive surgical and catheter-based procedures for cardiac and vascular disease. Our doctors are at the forefront of many technologies used today and they continue to innovate the field to advance your heart care options. Our interventionalists are experts in opening arteries that are typically not amenable to stenting or surgery, like chronic total occlusions.

Coronary angioplasty

Coronary angioplasty opens blocked arteries and restores normal blood flow to the heart muscle. It is done by threading a thin tube or catheter through a small puncture in a leg or arm artery to the heart. The blocked artery is opened by inflating a tiny balloon in it. A small metal coil or stent is then implanted in the clogged artery to keep it open and reduce the risk of narrowing again.

Common cardiovascular conditions requiring intervention include:

• Blockages of the arteries to the heart, brain, arms, legs, kidneys, and other organs
• Blockages of the veins
• Blood clots in arteries or veins