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An Automated Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (AICD) is a device designed to monitor heart rhythms and deliver electrical shocks when necessary to correct arrhythmias.
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An Automated Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (AICD) lead procedure involves the implantation and management of leads that connect the AICD device to the heart.
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Audio electric cardiography (AECG) is an innovative diagnostic technique that combines traditional electrocardiography (ECG) with audio analysis to enhance the assessment of cardiac function. This method captures the electrical signals of the heart and translates them into audio signals, allowing for the examination of both rhythm and sound patterns associated with cardiac activity.
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Balloon angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to open narrowed or blocked blood vessels, typically in the heart. During the procedure, a small balloon is inserted into the affected artery via a catheter. Once in place, the balloon is inflated, which compresses the plaque against the artery walls and restores blood flow. This can alleviate symptoms such as chest pain and reduce the risk of heart attacks. In many cases, a stent may also be placed to help keep the artery open after the balloon is deflated and removed. Balloon angioplasty is often performed as part of coronary intervention in patients with coronary artery disease.
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A cardiac CT angiogram is a non-invasive imaging technique used to visualize the blood vessels of the heart. It employs advanced X-ray technology and contrast dye to produce detailed images of the coronary arteries, helping to identify blockages or narrowing that may cause heart disease. The procedure involves the injection of a contrast material into a vein, followed by a CT scan that captures cross-sectional images of the heart and surrounding structures. This diagnostic tool is instrumental in assessing coronary artery disease, guiding treatment decisions, and evaluating the need for interventions such as balloon angioplasty or stent placement. The cardiac CT angiogram is known for its high accuracy and speed, making it a valuable option in modern cardiovascular diagnostics.
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Cardiac catheterization is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat various heart conditions. During the procedure, a thin tube (catheter) is inserted into a blood vessel, often in the arm or groin, and guided to the heart under imaging guidance. This allows for direct visualization of the heart's chambers, valves, and blood vessels. Cardiac catheterization can help identify blockages, assess heart function, and measure pressures within the heart. It may also be used therapeutically for procedures such as balloon angioplasty and stent placement to restore proper blood flow. With a combination of diagnostic and interventional capabilities, cardiac catheterization is a crucial tool in the management of heart disease.
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A cardiovascular stress test is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the heart's response to physical exertion. During the test, the patient exercises on a treadmill or stationary bike while their heart rate, blood pressure, and electrocardiogram (ECG) are monitored. The primary goal is to assess how well the heart functions under stress and to identify any abnormalities, such as ischemia or arrhythmias, that may not be apparent at rest. Stress tests are commonly used to detect coronary artery disease, evaluate exercise tolerance, and guide treatment decisions. Overall, it is a vital component in diagnosing cardiovascular conditions and determining patient management strategies.
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Cardioversion is a medical procedure used to restore a normal heart rhythm in patients experiencing certain types of arrhythmias, particularly atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter. It involves delivering a controlled electric shock to the heart through paddles or patches placed on the chest. The shock interrupts the abnormal electrical patterns, allowing the heart to reset and re-establish a regular rhythm. Cardioversion can be performed as an elective outpatient procedure or as an emergency intervention, depending on the patient's condition. The procedure is generally safe, but it requires careful monitoring of the patient’s vital signs and heart function during and after the process.