Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease is the narrowing of the coronary arteries. This narrowing of the arteries is caused by atherosclerosis – a buildup of fatty deposits, cholesterol, calcium, and plaque on the inner surface of the arteries. Atherosclerosis restricts blood flow to the heart, which can lead to heart attack or other heart problems. Symptoms may include angina (intermittent chest pain), shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, and/or weakness.
Coronary angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to open blocked or narrowed coronary arteries caused by arteriosclerosis- to restore blood flow to the heart – often avoiding the need for surgery.
Since Dr. Robert Greene first performed coronary angioplasty on East Bay patients in 1982 there have been many medical advances in this branch of cardiology, known as interventional cardiology. Today interventional cardiologists are treating coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease and valvular heart disease. Primary angioplasty is the gold standard care for the patient with acute myocardial infarction (STEMI). Our program at ABSMC was the first and is now the largest STEMI (Receiving Center in the Alameda County Emergency Medical Services Agency.
In addition we are treating complex, high risk coronary blockages using Abiomed's Impella™ left ventricular assist device and revascularizing chronic total occlusions (CTO) using Boston Scientific's CrossBoss™ and Stingray™ system.
HEART VALVE DISEASE
Heart Valve Disease involves heart valves that are not working correctly to regulate the flow of blood through the heart chambers. This can arise from birth defects, bacterial infection, or they can degenerate with the normal aging process. To compensate, your heart must pump harder, and may be unable to supply adequate blood circulation to the rest of your body. One common form of heart valve disease is aortic valve stenosis. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, chest pain, and/or fainting.
PERIPHERAL VASCULAR DISEASE
Peripheral Vascular Disease involves the other arteries that run throughout your body. Like the coronary arteries in your heart, these vessels can become clogged and hardened through atherosclerosis, and can increase your risk for high blood pressure, stroke, or limb loss. Symptoms may also include pain in the leg muscles (particularly calves and thighs) and/or severe aching pain in your toes or feet at night.