Interventional Cardiology

Minimally Invasive Heart Procedures

If your heart condition requires cardiac treatment and surgery, you may be eligible for interventional cardiology procedures, a group of minimally invasive procedures involving cardiac catheterization, instead of undergoing open heart surgery.

Cardiac Catheterization

Cardiac catheterization, often called cardiac cath, is the insertion of a thin, flexible tube (a catheter) into a chamber of the heart, or a blood vessel.

The interventional cardiologists at Bassett Healthcare Network perform cardiac catheterization by inserting a catheter, then using small instruments to diagnose or resolve the heart problem.

Cardiac Catheterization Procedures

Our interventional cardiologists utilize cardiac catheterization for the following procedures:

• Angiography – a dye is injected into an artery to evaluate narrow or blocked passages caused by heart disease
• Coronary atherectomy – a tiny blade, or “Rota burr,” is used to shave plaque from the artery walls
• Intracoronary ultrasound – sound waves are used to capture detailed images of your blood vessels and blood flow from within the blood vessel
• Radiofrequency ablation – radio waves are used to destroy cells that cause an abnormal heartbeat
• Stent placement – a small device is injected into your artery to hold it open and help blood flow, or to support an aneurysm
• Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) – a minimally invasive procedure to place an artificial valve inside a malfunctioning valve

Interventional Procedures

Most interventional cardiology procedures at Bassett Healthcare Network do not require general anesthesia. In most cases, our interventional cardiologists use a local anesthetic to numb the site where the catheter is inserted, and intravenous medications to help you relax during the procedure.

The catheter will be inserted into a vein or artery in your arm or leg. After the procedure, you may be asked to rest in a recovery area for an hour or more. Occasionally, you may need to spend the night in the hospital.

The chief advantage of minimally invasive interventional cardiology is that the recovery time is quicker and less painful than with open heart surgery. You may still be advised to take it easy for a few days after your procedure, and your cardiologist may recommend cardiac rehab to help your recovery.

Get a Referral for an Interventional Cardiology Consultation

When your condition requires heart surgery, interventional procedures are minimally invasive alternatives to traditional open heart surgery. Schedule an appointment with your primary care practitioner or heart specialist to learn if you are a candidate for interventional cardiology.

Bassett Healthcare Network offers interventional cardiology in Central New York, at our hospitals in Cooperstown, Cobleskill, Herkimer, Little Falls, and more.