For a free physician referral or to find a Cardiologist, call MedLine® at (423) 622-6848 or (800) 242-5662.

At Parkridge Health System, your heart is in good hands. Our team of cardiothoracic and vascular surgeons specialize in conditions that commonly affect the people in the Chattanooga area, northwest Georgia and northeast Alabama.

Our expert surgeons use innovative techniques and advanced equipment to perform open and minimally invasive procedures to repair the heart and vascular system and enhance quality of life for our patients.

The team approach deployed by The Heart Center at Parkridge Medical Center ensures patients receive comprehensive care throughout their treatment regimen. From cardiologist referral through surgery and cardiac rehabilitation, our team walks with patients every step of the way.

Minimally invasive procedures

Percutaneous coronary intervention

A blocked coronary artery can prevent sufficient blood flow to the heart and cause a number of symptoms, including chest pain (angina), fatigue and shortness of breath. Coronary total occlusion (CTO) happens when the coronary artery is completely blocked for an extended period of time.

An alternative to traditional open-heart bypass surgery, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a minimally invasive technique for unblocking the coronary artery, relieving your symptoms and the strain on your heart.

Your cardiac team will determine the best treatment plan for you.

How it works

  1. Your physician uses a local anesthetic to numb the area in which he or she will make a small incision.
  2. The physician inserts a small catheter - about the size of a pencil - into the incision and guides it to the blockage.
  3. The catheter is equipped with a small balloon that inflates and deflates, stretching the artery and clearing the blockage.
  4. A mesh stent may also be placed at the blockage site to hold the artery open.
  5. Having cleared the artery, the physician will remove the catheter.