What is an interventional cardiologist?

An interventional cardiologist is a specialist in the field of cardiology who is trained in performing minimally invasive procedures to diagnose and treat cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks, coronary artery disease, and heart valve disorders. They use imaging techniques such as ultrasound, X-ray, and MRI to guide catheters (thin, flexible tubes) into the body's blood vessels to reach the heart.

Interventional cardiologists perform procedures such as angioplasty, a procedure to remove blockages in the coronary arteries, and stenting, which involves placing a small metal mesh tube in the arteries to open up the blocked area and to keep the artery open. They also perform other procedures such as closure of certain types of heart defects, repair of heart valves, and treatments for peripheral artery disease, among others.

Interventional cardiologists typically work in hospitals or specialty clinics. They often work in close collaboration with other members of the cardiac care team, including other cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and cardiovascular nurses. They need to complete years of undergraduate studies, medical school, residency, and specialized training in interventional cardiology. They also need to be board-certified in internal medicine and cardiology, and may choose to pursue additional certification in interventional cardiology.