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Understanding Tests & Procedures

Therapeutic Procedures

Heart Failure: Procedures That May Help - VHL HealthSheet #86173_VA
Certain procedures may help in some cases of heart failure. They are done to treat health problems that are affecting your heart. Here are some examples.
Coronary Angioplasty - VHL HealthSheet #82014_VA
Your doctor will talk to you about your heart problem and explain how angioplasty can help. Angioplasty relieves symptoms of coronary artery disease by improving blood flow to your heart.
Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery - VHL HealthSheet #82019_VA
Coronary artery bypass surgery creates a path for blood to flow around a blockage and helps prevent a heart attack.
Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) - VHL HealthSheet #82025_VA
An ICD is a device that is placed permanently inside your body. An ICD monitors your heart rhythm (the speed and pattern of your heartbeat). If this rhythm becomes too fasst or too slow, the ICD sends out electrical signals that help bring the rhythm back to normal.
Pacemakers - VHL HealthSheet #82031_VA
A pacemaker is a small electronic device that helps your heart’s electrical system beat at the right pace. Inserting the pacemaker into your body is called implantation. You stay awake during the procedure.
Living with an ICD - VHL HealthSheet #82046_VA
ICDs are well protected. Most machines and devices will not interfere. Microwave ovens and other appliances should not cause problems. Neither should computers. Signals from a few devices might cause problems with your ICD, though. Take care to avoid these potential problems.
Living with a Pacemaker - VHL HealthSheet #82049_VA
You can usually do almost everything you did before you got your pacemaker. See your doctor regularly to help ensure that you remain healthy and feeling good. Here are some things to avoid.
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