Lesson objective: The basic principles of invasive cardiology which is a very important subspecialty of contemporary Cardiology.

Lesson content:

a. Theory: Basic principles of treatment (invasive or no) of coronary artery disease (acute coronary syndrome with or without ST segment elevation, stable and unstable angina) according to guidelines. Medications and invasive treatment of these patients: indications, benefits and complications. Treatment of specific patient groups eg. with chronic renal disease, cardiogenic shock, atrial fibrillation. Types of Stents used for coronary artery angioplasty (drug eluting or bare metal): indications of implantation and possible complications. Basic principles of intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) use in cardiogenic shock. Intravascular ultrasonography (IVUS): indications, basic principles, application in clinical practice or research. Non-invasive methods for the diagnosis of myocardial ischemia, risk stratification and the decision for revascularization. Diagnosis and treatment of patients with peripheral arterial disease (limps, carotids, renal arteries, aortic aneurysm). Diagnosis and treatment of patients with structural heart disease (congenital heart disease). Invasive treatment of patients with aortic stenosis, mitral regurgitation and atrial fibrillation.

b. Practice: Basic principles of invasive cardiology in the catheterization laboratory. Puncture using Seldiger method. Coronary angiography (technique, projections, explanation of images). Ventriculography and hemodynamics. Arterial puncture hemostasis and occlusion devices. Percutaneous coronary and peripheral angiolasty. Demonstration of equipment (balloons, stents, IABP).

Structure of the class and goals: The students will have to attend several lectures on the aforementioned topics which will consist of theory, clinical cases and videos from the catheterization laboratory. "Invasive Cardiology" class will familiarize the medical students with every day cardiology practice and become their potential specialty after graduating from the Medical School.

Hours of training per student: 26

From the 9th Semester

ECTS: 2