Cardiovascular surgery and interventional cardiology are complementary fields dedicated to the treatment of structural and vascular heart diseases. Cardiovascular surgery traditionally involves open-heart procedures, such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), valve repair or replacement, and correction of congenital heart defects. Advances in surgical techniques, anesthesia, cardiopulmonary bypass, and perioperative care have significantly improved patient survival and recovery. Minimally invasive approaches, including robotic-assisted surgery and thoracoscopic procedures, now allow precise interventions with smaller incisions, reduced complications, and faster rehabilitation.
Interventional cardiology focuses on catheter-based, minimally invasive techniques to diagnose and treat heart and vascular conditions without the need for open surgery. Procedures such as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), balloon valvuloplasty, and stent implantation have revolutionized the management of coronary artery disease, valvular disorders, and peripheral vascular disease. Advanced imaging modalities, intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), and optical coherence tomography (OCT) guide precise placement and evaluation of devices, improving procedural outcomes. The integration of cardiovascular surgery and interventional cardiology allows a heart-team approach, ensuring individualized, evidence-based care for complex cases. Ongoing innovations in device technology, hybrid procedures, and regenerative therapies continue to expand treatment options, offering improved survival, functional recovery, and quality of life for patients with cardiovascular disease.