Interventional Cardiology Specialist

What is interventional cardiology?

Interventional cardiology involves the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular conditions with minimally invasive, catheter-based procedures. Rather than addressing conditions with lifestyle changes, medication, or open surgery, interventional cardiology uses small, flexible tubes inserted through the blood vessels to make mechanical adjustments.

The experienced physicians at Children’s Cardiology Group have extensive training and experience in pediatric interventional cardiology. You can trust them to perform all procedures safely and effectively.

Which conditions can interventional cardiology address?

In children, interventional cardiology focuses primarily on cardiovascular conditions present at birth. Known as congenital defects, these include:

• Holes between the chambers of the heart
• Valve problems
• Abnormal blood vessels

Some congenital conditions do require open heart surgery, but interventional cardiology can address many of these concerns.

Which interventional procedures are performed on children?

Some of the interventional procedures performed by the skilled experts at Children’s Cardiology Group include:

Catheter-based valve implantation

During a catheter-based valve implantation, a catheter is used to place an artificial valve within the heart. A tiny balloon on the tip of the catheter inflates to open the affected blood vessels. Your doctor then guides the artificial valve into place before deflating the balloon and removing the catheter.

Cardiac hole closures

Catheter procedures can correct congenital defects that result in holes between the chambers of the heart. Your physician threads the catheter through a blood vessel to reach the heart, then inserts a device that opens to fill the hole, preventing unwanted blood flow between the heart’s chambers or into the lungs. 

Valvuloplasty

To enlarge a narrow valve in the heart, your physician inserts a catheter affixed with a tiny balloon. They inflate the balloon inside the valve to stretch it, so blood can flow through it normally. 

Stent placement

To address narrow arteries, your physician uses a catheter to place a device called a stent inside the artery. This small mesh tube holds the artery open, so blood can flow through it as it should.

If your child has a condition that could benefit from interventional cardiology, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with a caring physician at Children’s Cardiology Group. Call the location nearest you, or make an appointment using the online scheduling tool today.