Walk through of the cardiac cath lab at West Middlesex Hospital

Dr Nijjer talks about PCI / Angioplasty for patients with angina and for those having a heart attack. Patients with stable angina are typically managed with medications initially and may undergo investigations to look for ischaemia (a lack of blood supply). If there is evidence of ischaemia or a significant burden of heart artery disease then performing a coronary angiogram can help identify the cause. In the modern era, we may perform a measurement of blood flow using a pressure wire. If this shows reduced blood flow, then coronary angioplasty with stenting (known as PCI) can be appropriate.

Dr. Nijjer discusses in general terms the reason why a patient may decide to have a percutaneous intervention (PCI) or open coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery. The decision for either treatment option is complex and can involve many factors. Patient factors such as the presence of diabetes or prior stroke or heart damage can be important. Technical factors involving the number of stents needed or the complexity of the procedure are also important. Finally, the decision can be shared between the patient, the Cardiologist and the Cardiothoracic Surgeons.

Dr Nijjar describes how he images coronary arteries in his lab at the West Middlesex Hospital

Dr Nijjar explains what a patient with angina can do outside of hospital to keep themselves as healthy as possible.

Dr Sukhjinder Nijjer explains the difference between three often confused terms: heart disease, heart attack and heart failure.

Dr Sukhjinder Nijjer explains what a heart attack, or myocardial infarction, is.