Interventional Cardiology
Minimally invasive coronary procedures — angiography, stenting, and 24/7 heart attack care — performed by specialist interventional cardiologists without open-chest surgery.
About Department
Interventional Cardiology at PB Health is a dedicated, high-acuity service focused on catheter-based diagnosis and treatment of coronary artery disease. We use thin, flexible catheters — introduced through a small puncture in the wrist (radial artery) or, where necessary, the groin (femoral artery) — to access the coronary circulation without open-heart surgery.
Clinical Focus Areas
What To Expect in Interventional Cardiology
- Before the Procedure: For elective cases, arrive fasting (no solid food for 6 hours; clear fluids permitted up to 2 hours beforehand). An intravenous cannula is placed. You will meet your interventional cardiologist, who will review your imaging, explain what is planned, and take written, informed consent. Blood thinning medications (antiplatelet agents) are loaded before the procedure to reduce the risk of clot formation during stenting.
- During the Procedure: You are awake but sedated with intravenous midazolam and fentanyl — relaxed, drowsy, and pain-free. Local anaesthetic is infiltrated at the access site (typically the right wrist). You may feel brief pressure during catheter manipulations, but no pain. Contrast dye is injected and your coronary arteries are displayed in real time on a large fluoroscopy screen. Your cardiologist will show you the images and explain the findings before proceeding. If stenting is indicated and consent was given pre-procedure, this proceeds without interruption.
- After the Procedure: Radial access (wrist): A compression band is applied for 2–4 hours; you can sit up and mobilise immediately. Femoral access (groin): Manual or device-assisted closure; 4–6 hours of bed rest is required. You will be monitored overnight in a step-down or CCU bed. Heart rhythm, blood pressure, and the access site are assessed regularly. Most patients are discharged the following morning with a full discharge summary, medication instructions, and a stent identification card.
Interventional Cardiac Services & Procedures
Coronary Angiogram
Coronary Angiogram – Contrast dye + X-ray to map all coronary arteries
Left Heart Catheterisation
Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR) – Wire-based pressure measurement to decide if stenting is necessary
Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR)
Drug-Eluting Stent (DES) – A stent that slowly releases medication to prevent re-blockage
Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS)
Post-dilatation – High-pressure balloon to fully expand a stent
Angioplasty (PTCA)
Primary PCI – Stenting without prior clot-dissolving medication (superior outcomes)
Bare Metal Stent (BMS)
Primary PCI – Stenting without prior clot-dissolving medication (superior outcomes)
Drug-Eluting Stent (DES)
Primary PCI – Stenting without prior clot-dissolving medication (superior outcomes)
Atherectomy
Primary PCI – Stenting without prior clot-dissolving medication (superior outcomes)
Thrombectomy
Primary PCI – Stenting without prior clot-dissolving medication (superior outcomes)
Post-dilatation
Primary PCI – Stenting without prior clot-dissolving medication (superior outcomes)
The PB Health Advantage in Treatment & Care
- Always available: 24/7/365 cath lab readiness for heart attacks
- Specialist-led procedures: An experienced interventional cardiologist performs every angiogram and stent.
- Radial artery first –: Wrist access means you can walk immediately after. No bed rest. Less bleeding.
- Compassionate communication –: Your doctor shows you the blockage on screen and explains the stent placement in real time.
- Technology-driven precision: Bi-plane angiography (faster, less dye), IVUS, FFR, and drug-eluting stents.
- Uncompromising safety: Radiation protection, sterile cath lab protocols, and evidence-based anti-clotting medications.
- Truly collaborative care: Immediate backup from cardiac surgery if complications arise (rare).
Have you had chest pain or had a Heart Attack?
Our interventional team is available 24/7. If you are having chest pain, shortness of breath, or sweating, do not wait. Call now or visit our emergency department immediately.
