Interventional cardiology in congenital heart disease is a highly relevant discipline for the treatment of cardiology patients, as it offers therapeutic solutions for heart problems present from birth.
Interventional cardiology
Interventional cardiology is a branch of cardiology focused on diagnosing and treating heart diseases through minimally invasive procedures.
These procedures are generally performed using catheters inserted through the skin and guided through the vascular system to the heart or major vessels, offering direct access to affected areas without the need for open-heart surgery.
There are multiple techniques used in interventional cardiology, including coronary angioplasty, stent implantation, the closure of cardiac defects, and the treatment of arrhythmias; however, in general, its main objectives are to improve blood circulation, correct structural defects, and optimize heart function..
What is congenital heart disease
In cardiology, congenital heart diseases are structural abnormalities of the heart that are present at birth.
These abnormalities can affect various parts of the heart, including the valves, internal walls, or major vessels.
Congenital heart diseases are the most common type of birth defect and can range from mild to severe. Some may cause no significant symptoms, while others require medical or surgical intervention during the first years of life.
Interventional cardiology plays a fundamental role in their treatment by offering less invasive alternatives compared with traditional cardiac surgery.
Using catheters, interventional cardiologists can make necessary adjustments or repairs. Common procedures include:
- Closure of septal defects: defects in the septum dividing the heart chambers, such as atrial septal defect (ASD) or ventricular septal defect (VSD), can be closed.
- Patent ductus arteriosus: a condition involving an open blood vessel between the aorta and pulmonary artery that should close after birth.
- Valvuloplasty: sometimes a child’s heart valves may be narrowed, limiting blood flow.
- Coarctation of the aorta: a condition involving narrowing of the aorta, restricting blood flow.
Performing these minimally invasive procedures not only reduces or eliminates the need for major surgery but also decreases hospitalization time and speeds up recovery, especially beneficial for pediatric patients.
Pediatric interventional cardiology
Because interventional cardiology for congenital heart disease is most commonly used in pediatric patients, pediatric interventional cardiologists have specialized knowledge in both interventional techniques and the anatomical and physiological characteristics of children, which differ from those of adults.
In children, the heart is still developing, while in adults it has already reached its final size; this requires an individualized approach to each case.
Interventional cardiology in congenital heart disease has revolutionized the management of cardiac malformations, allowing many conditions to be treated more safely and with less impact on the patient.
Interventional cardiologist near me
At ABC Medical Center’s Cardiovascular Center, we have a team of highly trained interventional cardiology specialists dedicated to providing comprehensive, personalized care for all your cardiovascular needs.
Our interventional cardiologists in Mexico City are committed to your well-being and use the latest technology and advanced treatments to manage conditions such as atrial and ventricular septal defects, patent ductus arteriosus, pulmonary valve stenosis, and more.
Fuentes:
NIH, MedlinePlus, UI Health
