Coronary Artery Disease
The coronary arteries supply a constant flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart. If plaque builds up in the coronary arteries, blockages can develop, reducing the blood flow to the heart and causing symptoms ranging from mild chest pain (angina) to a heart attack.
Diagnostic Tests
An
individual being evaluated for possible coronary artery disease may
begin with the simplest tests such as an EKG or exercise stress test
and may progress to more complicated tests such as heart
catheterization or angiogram. Specific tests depend on the patient's
particular symptoms and the physician's assessment. Some of these tests
are non-invasive - that is, they don't involve inserting needles,
instruments or fluids into the body. Those that do are called invasive
tests.
Treatments
Treatments for coronary artery disease include:
- Medications-
Many medications can prevent the discomfort of angina. The medications
work to increase the blood flow to the heart muscle or reduce the
heart's demand for oxygen by slowing the heart rate and reducing blood
pressure.
- Surgery
Surgical Options
There are a variety of surgical options available for coronary artery
disease. Here are a few of the options:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
- Angioplasty, Stent Placement and Atherectomy
- Angioplasty and Stent Placement
- Atherectomy, Rotational Atherectomy
Preventing a Heart Attack
Coronary Stents