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Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease (CAD), also known as coronary heart disease (CHD) or ischemic heart disease (IHD), is a condition in which the coronary arteries (the blood vessels that supply the heart muscle with oxygen-rich blood) become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of fatty deposits called plaque. This process, known as atherosclerosis, reduces or completely obstructs the flow of blood to the heart, which can lead to serious complications like chest pain (angina), heart attacks, and heart failure.

The primary cause of Coronary Artery Disease is atherosclerosis, where plaques made of cholesterol, fatty substances, calcium, and other materials accumulate on the inner walls of the arteries. This leads to:

  1. Narrowing of arteries: Plaque buildup gradually reduces the space inside the coronary arteries, limiting blood flow.
  2. Reduced oxygen supply: When less oxygen-rich blood reaches the heart muscle, it can cause chest pain (angina) or other symptoms, especially during physical activity.
  3. Blood clots: If a plaque ruptures, it can lead to the formation of a blood clot, which can further block the artery, potentially causing a heart attack.

Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease vary based on the extent of the blockage and can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

  • Chest pain (angina): A common symptom, angina is discomfort or tightness in the chest, often described as pressure or squeezing. It can also radiate to the arms, shoulders, back, neck, or jaw.
  • Shortness of breath: Especially during exertion or physical activity.
  • Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired, particularly with exertion.
  • Heart palpitations: A feeling of irregular or rapid heartbeat.
  • Nausea and dizziness.
  • Sweating: Especially when related to angina or heart attack.

Treatment options

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Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

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Anaortic All-arterial Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

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Robotic Off-pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

Diagnostic options

Coronary Angiography

CT-Coronary Angiography

CT-Aortogram

Comprehensive coronary physiology evaluation

Intravascular imaging

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Since 2009, the Sydney Heart Team has been successfully treating some of the country’s most challenging heart patients, returning them to an excellent quality of life.

- Professor Martin Ng

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