Center of Excellence
Complex Coronary Artery Disease
& Refractory Angina
Program Overview
The Complex Coronary Artery Disease and Refractory Angina Center of Excellence at the NCH Rooney Heart Institute is dedicated to the comprehensive management of patients with complex coronary artery disease (CAD) and refractory angina. Led by a multidisciplinary team of experts and complemented by state-of-the-art technology and cutting-edge research, we improve patient outcomes and quality of life through individualized care.
Conditions We Treat
We diagnose and treat a full spectrum of coronary artery conditions. Our specialized team provides advanced, personalized care to improve heart health and enhance patient quality of life.
- Complex Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): A form of heart disease that affects multiple blood vessels and can involve blockages that are difficult to treat
- Refractory Angina: A persistent chest pain that occurs due to insufficient blood flow to the heart, despite the trial of other available therapies
Testing & Diagnostics
To accurately diagnose and provide our patients the highest quality of care, we conduct tests to evaluate current condition(s) and move forward with appropriate treatment(s).
For Complex CAD, these may include:
- Advanced Imaging Techniques: Employing sophisticated scanning methods and advanced tools to capture high-resolution images of the heart’s blood vessels for precise evaluation
- Non-Invasive Testing: Stress tests, cardiac CT scans, and MRI to assess the severity and extent of disease
- Functional Assessment: A Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR) examination to measure how much a blockage in the heart’s blood vessels affects blood flow
For Refractory Angina, tests may include:
- Symptom Assessment: Detailed evaluation of angina symptoms, frequency, and triggers
- Ischemia Testing: The use of advanced scans and exams to locate areas with poor blood flow in the heart that conventional treatments might not address
Treatments & Procedures
Once a diagnosis is made, we’ll move forward with one of the following care options:
For Complex CAD, these may include:
- Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI): Advanced heart procedures, including the use of specialized balloons, lasers, and plaque modification devices to allow successful stent placement, restoring blood flow. NCH is one of only a handful of institutions in the state of Florida offering DCB (drug-coated balloon) therapy for patients with difficult-to-treat stent failure or in-stent restenosis.
- Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG): Surgery to improve blood flow in the heart for people with severe artery blockages
- Medical Management: The optimization of medications to improve heart health such as blood thinners, cholesterol management, and angina treatments
- Mechanical Circulatory Support (MCS): Devices to assist the heart during incredibly complex procedures, allowing for improved patient safety, and optimizing outcomes.
For Refractory Angina, tests may include:
- Chronic Total Occlusion (CTO) Angioplasty: A minimally invasive procedure to open completely blocked heart arteries and restore blood flow
- Coronary Sinus Reducer (CSR): A device that helps relieve severe chest pain by improving blood flow through a minimally invasive procedure. NCH is one of only a few centers in the state and limited number of centers nationwide to offer this specialized procedure.
- Lifestyle and Behavioral Interventions: Comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation programs incorporating exercise, nutrition, and psychological support
PATIENT-CENTERED CARE
Our philosophy emphasizes:
- Individualized Treatment Plans: Tailoring interventions based on each patient’s unique clinical profile and preferences
- Comprehensive Education: Empowering patients with knowledge about their condition and treatment options
- Holistic Approach: Addressing physical, emotional, and social aspects of health to enhance overall well-being
Clinical Research Trials
As one of the few programs with access to groundbreaking clinical research, we offer unique opportunities for patients to participate in advanced treatment trials. Below are some of the innovative clinical trials we currently offer, providing access to the latest developments in heart care.
Research & Innovation
Our Center of Excellence is committed to advancing the field through:
- Clinical Trials: Participation in multicenter trials to evaluate new therapies and interventions
- Translational Research: Bridging the gap between laboratory discoveries and clinical application to improve patient care
Our Team
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