At UPMC, our experts are committed to offering leading-edge treatment for coronary artery disease and access to the most advanced clinical trials.
We use the latest therapies and techniques to treat blocked or narrowed arteries and help prevent complications related to coronary artery disease.
Our interventional cardiologists and cardiac surgeons provide expert treatment for coronary arteries that are narrowed, inflamed, damaged, or blocked due to a buildup of a cholesterol-containing substance called plaque.
What conditions do we treat?
In addition to treating coronary artery disease, we also treat related complications, including:
People who have been diagnosed with coronary artery disease with or without symptoms can benefit from specialized care at UPMC. With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, it is possible to avoid serious complications and slow the progression of coronary artery disease.
Our specialists can refer you to programs that will help you make healthy lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, losing weight, improving your diet, increasing your activity level, and managing stress. If lifestyle improvements are not enough, treatment may be necessary. We offer a range of treatments, including:
Many people with mild coronary artery disease manage their condition with lifestyle changes and medication. However, if you have moderate to severe coronary artery disease, your doctor may recommend cardiac catheterization and angioplasty, or stenting. If your coronary artery disease is extensive or unable to be treated by stenting , your doctor may recommend CABG, or bypass surgery.
UPMC patients have access to leading-edge clinical trials for the latest medications, devices, and surgical techniques to advance the treatment of coronary artery disease. Additionally, our experts are early adopters of the latest innovations, allowing us to offer advanced care to our patients before it becomes available elsewhere.
Our team includes general cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, interventional cardiologists, and other medical experts. They will create a comprehensive plan to manage your coronary artery disease and reduce your risk of complications.
To prepare for your visit with your coronary artery disease expert, you will be asked to provide:
If you get a referral from your primary care doctor or another physician, they may be able to provide your test results and medical records to our team.
When you arrive for your first appointment, you'll meet with a nurse practitioner or physician assistant. He or she will ask about your medical history and coronary artery disease symptoms.
We'll give you a:
Next, you'll meet with one of our doctors. The doctor will explain your treatment options based on how long you've had coronary artery disease, your symptoms, and past health history.
Together, you will design and agree on a care plan.
Certain treatments may require:
Our team will schedule follow-up appointments as needed to check in with you about how your treatment is working. You should contact our office if:
Coronary artery disease may reduce your life expectancy when compared to someone who does not have heart disease. However, with early diagnosis and proper treatment, many people with coronary artery disease live active and fulfilling lives.
The team at UPMC is dedicated to helping you live a full life with coronary artery disease. Our experts will provide you and your family with the education, information, and support you need to understand and manage your diagnosis.
By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2024-10-01.
