Services and Programs

Children's Heart Center at Strong

Specialized Programs - Interventional Cardiology Program

Cardiac catheterization is a minimally invasive test that provides additional information regarding your congenital heart defect. A congenital heart defect is an abnormality of the heart present since birth. Because of the abnormality, the structure and function of the heart is affected. Cardiac Catheterization provides an opportunity to assess the functioning and the effects the defect have upon the cardiac system. It helps the cardiology team determine future plans for care. Determination for the need of surgery may be based on the findings obtained during the test.

During the catheterization, special “moving” pictures are obtained after dye is injected through the catheter into a specific area. These pictures are called angiograms. These moving pictures provide valuable information regarding diagnosis and possible catheter treatment (interventions).

The Children’s Heart Center offers the only pediatric catheterization laboratory in Western New York equipped to perform the most specialized interventional procedures on children and adults with congenital heart disease. Previously, families had to drive to Cleveland or Boston for this type of service. Now, they can receive the highest quality of care within a short drive of home.

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