Interventional Cardiology

Interventional cardiology is a sub-specialized field of cardiology that deals specifically with catheter-based treatment of structural heart diseases.

A large number of heart procedures can be performed by catheterization. Typically this involves the insertion of tiny fibers into an artery in the groin or arm, up to the heart.  An interventional cardiologist can use this method to measure pressure, take pictures of the arteries that feed the heart, or fix arterial blockages.

Interventional Cardiology Treatments

BayCare Clinic's interventional cardiology team performs more radial artery (wrist) cardiac catheterizations than anyone else north of Milwaukee, and we were the first in the region to offer this option to patients.

 Other interventional cardiology treatments include the following:

  • Diagnostic cardiac catheterization and angiography
  • Coronary angioplasty (PTCA)
  • Coronary stenting
  • Balloon angioplasty
  • Intravascular radiation therapy
  • Directional and rotational atherectomy
  • Closure of patent foramen ovale (PFO)
  • Closure of atrial septal defects (ASD)
  • Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS)
  • Mitral and aortic valvuloplasty (PTAV/PTMV)
  • Ventricular septal defect (VSD)

Our interventional cardiologists have mastered the most advanced treatments available and perform the full breadth of interventional cardiology tests and procedures.  Each BayCare Clinic interventional cardiologist holds at least two board certifications.

The interventional cardiology program includes a team of dedicated interventional cardiologists, specially trained nurses, and technicians. Together they provide the highest level of care to patients with coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, peripheral vascular disease, and congenital abnormalities.

Radial Artery Catheterization

BayCare Clinic is the leader is radial artery catheterization.  Accessing the heart through the wrist's radial artery, rather than the groin, reduces complications and shortens recovery time.  With a radial artery catheterization, pain and recovery time are significantly diminished.  The whole procedure typically lasts about 45 minutes.  Patients can move around during recovery and go home within two to four hours.  With a traditional catheterization, patients must stay in a recumbent position for six to eight hours after the procedure.

Top 50 Cardiovascular Center

Our interventional cardiologists support the Aurora BayCare Medical Center in Green Bay.  Thomson Reuters named Aurora BayCare among the 50 Top Hospitals for cardiovascular care.  Award winners had higher survival rates, reduced patient complications, and lowered costs when compared to other hospitals.  Learn more about this award winning cardiovascular center at Aurora BayCare Medical Center.

Providers

Sarah H. Fenton, MD, FACC
David Mathias, MD
Scott T. Weslow, MD
William Witmer, MD, FACC