What Are the Latest Treatment Options for Heart Disease and Blocked Arteries?
Learn how advanced heart procedures can treat blocked arteries, improve blood flow, and support people living with heart failure.
By Yaser Alhamshari, MD, Interventional Cardiologist, Virtua Cardiology
Cardiovascular problems, from a blocked artery or vein to a diseased valve, can greatly impact your quality of life—and may even be life-threatening. That’s why having access to the latest, most effective treatments is essential.
Over the years, I have encountered patients who had total blockages and were having chest pain on a daily basis and could not walk, play tennis, or do much else, but were told they were too high-risk for surgery. Once we cleared the blockage, they saw great improvement.
At Virtua, our experts use minimally invasive treatments to restore blood flow, repair damaged blood vessels, support weak hearts, and treat complex cardiovascular conditions that may not respond to medication or traditional surgery.
How are coronary artery blockages treated?
Complete artery blockages, known as chronic total occlusions, are among the most challenging forms of coronary artery disease to treat and can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and reduced physical activity.
We may be unable to use a balloon and stent to restore blood flow. Coronary artery bypass surgery may not be a safe alternative for people who are older or have other medical conditions, and medication will not resolve a blockage.
Now, new types of miniature drills, shockwave ultrasound, and lasers can cut through and safely remove plaque in an artery. Indeed, what was not possible five years ago is possible now, improving outcomes.
What are the treatments for peripheral vascular disease?
Similar approaches may be used to treat peripheral vascular disease, a narrowing or blockage of the blood vessels in the legs.
Through limb-salvage procedures, we are not just preserving someone’s leg or foot, we are prolonging their life and improving their mobility. Our cardiologists, vascular surgeons, interventional radiologists, and wound specialists work together to develop the best options for each person.
What are the options for treating heart failure?
To help reduce the stress of surgery in individuals whose heart is weakened by heart failure or other conditions, cardiac surgeons utilize a mechanical heart pump called the Impella. Inserted into the heart through a catheter, the device sends oxygen-rich blood from the left ventricle to the aorta—the main artery supplying blood to the body—ensuring blood flow to the brain, kidneys and other organs is sufficient.
For those living with a severely weakened heart, another type of pump, called a left ventricular assist device, or LVAD, can help move blood throughout the body.
In addition, many Virtua cardiologists participate in research on new treatments, devices, and medications, giving patients to care not yet widely available.
Cardiology is ever evolving, with new frontiers of treatment. Speak with your physician about the options now available.
Schedule an appointment with a Virtua cardiologist.
At Virtua, we want to keep your heart as strong as possible, for as long as possible. Call 888-847-8823 to schedule an appointment with one of our cardiologists at a location near you.
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