Coronary angiography is a diagnostic procedure used to identify narrowing or blockages in the arteries supplying blood to the heart. A thin catheter is introduced through an artery, commonly in the wrist or groin, and contrast dye is injected to obtain X-ray images. The findings help guide further treatment decisions.
Coronary angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to restore blood flow through narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. A balloon catheter is used to widen the affected artery, often followed by placement of a stent. Treatment is considered according to symptoms, coronary anatomy and the patient's overall cardiovascular condition.
Emergency coronary intervention may be required for selected patients experiencing a heart attack caused by sudden coronary artery blockage. Primary percutaneous coronary intervention can restore blood flow by opening the affected artery, often using a balloon and stent. Rapid diagnosis and timely treatment are essential to limit heart muscle damage.
Coronary angiography can be performed through the radial artery in the wrist or the femoral artery in the groin. Both approaches allow a catheter to reach the coronary arteries for diagnostic imaging. The choice of access depends on the patient's vascular anatomy, medical condition and procedural requirements.
Peripheral angiography is an imaging procedure used to examine arteries outside the heart, particularly those supplying the limbs or other organs. Contrast dye and X-ray imaging help identify narrowing, blockages or vascular abnormalities. The results may guide medication, lifestyle management or further vascular intervention when clinically indicated.
A permanent pacemaker is an implanted electronic device used to treat selected conditions involving an abnormally slow heartbeat or impaired electrical conduction. The device sends electrical impulses to help maintain an appropriate heart rate. Pacemaker implantation requires specialist assessment, and patients need regular device checks after the procedure.
Single-chamber pacemakers typically stimulate one heart chamber, while dual-chamber pacemakers can coordinate electrical activity between the atrium and ventricle. The appropriate device depends on the patient's heart rhythm disorder and clinical requirements. Implantation is followed by device programming, monitoring and periodic evaluation of battery and lead function.
An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator is a cardiac device designed to detect and treat certain dangerous heart rhythm disturbances. It may deliver electrical therapy when life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias occur. ICD implantation is considered for selected patients at increased risk of sudden cardiac death, based on established clinical indications and individual assessment.
Balloon mitral valvuloplasty, also known as percutaneous transvenous mitral commissurotomy, is a catheter-based treatment for selected patients with mitral valve narrowing. A balloon is positioned across the valve and inflated to improve its opening. Suitability depends on valve anatomy, disease severity and other cardiovascular findings.
Echocardiography is an ultrasound examination used to assess heart chambers, valves, pumping function and blood flow. It can help investigate heart failure, valve disorders and structural heart abnormalities. Echocardiography is performed in adults and children using age-appropriate techniques, with findings interpreted according to the patient's condition.
Transoesophageal echocardiography is a specialised ultrasound examination performed using a probe introduced into the oesophagus. This provides detailed images of certain heart structures, particularly valves and the atria. It may be recommended when standard echocardiography does not provide sufficient information for diagnosis or treatment planning.
A diagnostic electrophysiology study evaluates the electrical activity and conduction pathways of the heart. Specialised catheters are positioned inside the heart to investigate selected rhythm abnormalities. The procedure may help identify the cause of palpitations or abnormal heart rhythms and determine whether additional treatments are appropriate.
Heart failure occurs when the heart cannot pump or fill effectively enough to meet the body's needs. Symptoms may include breathlessness, fatigue and swelling of the legs. Management can involve medicines, treatment of underlying heart disease, lifestyle measures, cardiac devices and regular monitoring according to clinical severity.
Preventive cardiology focuses on reducing the risk of heart disease through early identification and management of cardiovascular risk factors. Assessment may include blood pressure, cholesterol levels, diabetes, smoking history and family history. Management can involve lifestyle changes, appropriate medication and ongoing follow-up to reduce future cardiovascular complications.