Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease is a common and serious condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, the blood vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. CAD is typically caused by the buildup of cholesterol plaque on the inner walls of the arteries, a process known as atherosclerosis. Over time, this plaque can restrict blood flow to the heart, leading to chest pain (angina), heart attack, or other complications.

Diagnosis: Diagnosing coronary artery disease typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as:

• Electrocardiography (ECG/EKG)
• Stress tests (e.g., exercise stress test, stress echocardiography, nuclear stress test)
• Coronary angiography
• Cardiac CT angiography
• Cardiac MRI
• Blood tests (e.g., lipid profile, cardiac biomarkers)

These tests help evaluate the extent and severity of coronary artery blockages, assess heart function, and determine the risk of complications such as heart attack or sudden cardiac death.

Advanced Treatment Options: At our facility, we offer a range of advanced treatment options for coronary artery disease, tailored to each patient’s specific needs:

1. Lifestyle Modifications: Lifestyle changes play a crucial role in managing CAD and reducing the risk of complications. Our team provides personalized guidance on dietary modifications, regular exercise, smoking cessation, stress management, and weight management to promote heart health and improve overall well-being.

2. Medication Management: Medications such as antiplatelet agents, statins, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), and nitroglycerin may be prescribed to relieve symptoms, lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, prevent blood clots, and improve heart function.

3. Coronary Angioplasty and Stenting: For patients with significant coronary artery blockages, coronary angioplasty and stenting may be recommended. During this minimally invasive procedure, a catheter with a deflated balloon at its tip is inserted into the blocked artery and inflated to widen the narrowed segment. A stent, a small mesh tube, is then placed to keep the artery open and restore blood flow to the heart muscle.

4. Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG): In cases where multiple coronary arteries are severely blocked or angioplasty is not feasible, coronary artery bypass grafting surgery may be performed. During CABG, healthy blood vessels from elsewhere in the body are used to bypass the blocked coronary arteries, creating alternative routes for blood flow to the heart.