Cardiac Electrophysiology Procedures

A carotid angiogram and stent procedure is used to diagnose and treat blockages in the carotid arteries, which are the major blood vessels supplying oxygen to the brain. This procedure involves inserting a catheter into the arteries and using X-ray imaging to guide it to the site of the blockage. Once identified, a stent is deployed to widen the artery and improve blood flow, reducing the risk of stroke. Common causes requiring this procedure include atherosclerosis, where plaque builds up in the arteries, and carotid artery stenosis, which narrows the arteries. The treatment typically takes a few hours and requires a short hospital stay.

A peripheral angiogram is a test that uses X-rays and dye to help your doctor find narrowed or blocked areas in one or more of the arteries that supply blood. Peripheral stents in leg vasculature are used to treat peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition where the arteries in the legs become narrowed or blocked by plaque, leading to reduced blood flow. This can cause symptoms such as leg pain, cramping, and in severe cases, tissue damage. The procedure involves inserting a catheter into the affected artery and deploying a stent to keep the artery open and restore blood flow. The process usually takes 1 to 2 hours and may require a brief hospital stay for monitoring.

Aneurysm repair is a surgical procedure to treat an aneurysm, which is a bulge or ballooning in a weakened area of a blood vessel wall. Aneurysms can occur in various parts of the body, including the brain, aorta, and legs. If left untreated, they can rupture, leading to life-threatening bleeding. Traditional aneurysm repair involves open surgery to replace the weakened section of the artery with a graft. The surgery can take several hours and often requires a longer hospital stay for recovery.

Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs), which are bulges in the aorta, the main blood vessel that supplies blood to the body. EVAR involves inserting a stent graft through small incisions in the groin and guiding it to the aneurysm site using X-ray imaging. The stent graft reinforces the weakened area and prevents the aneurysm from rupturing. This procedure typically takes 2 to 3 hours and often results in a shorter hospital stay and quicker recovery compared to open surgery.

Working with an experienced heart doctor at Okaloosa Heart & Vascular Center provides you with access to comprehensive cardiac care and advanced treatment options for your heart conditions. Our specialized cardiologist team offers cutting-edge services and procedures that are designed to restore normal heart rhythm and improve your quality of life. We utilize state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and minimally invasive techniques to provide personalized treatment plans for your specific cardiac needs. Our commitment to excellence allows us to provide the highest standard of care throughout your treatment journey.

Recognizing the warning signs of potential heart problems is crucial for early intervention and successful treatment outcomes. Common symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat or palpitations, dizziness or lightheadedness, and unexplained fatigue during normal activities. Additional concerning signs may include swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet, as well as a persistent cough or wheezing. If you experience any combination of these symptoms, it's essential to seek prompt evaluation from our heart doctor team to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment strategy.

If you're experiencing heart symptoms or if an aneurysm has been detected, don't delay in seeking care from our qualified heart doctor. Contact Okaloosa Heart & Vascular Center today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward better heart health. Our team is committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive cardiac care to patients throughout the Northwest Florida region. Early diagnosis and treatment of heart conditions can significantly improve your prognosis and help you maintain an active, healthy lifestyle for years to come.