Peter Munk Cardiac Centre

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This is not an exhaustive list, but includes some of the terminology commonly used in the assessment and treatment of cardiac disorders. To view this glossary simply click on the corresponding letter below:

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Ablation

The removal of a body part or the destruction of its function through a surgical procedure or morbid process, or the presence or application of a noxious substance

Angina

A type of chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. Angina is a symptom of coronary artery disease.  Angina is typically described as squeezing, pressure, heaviness, tightness or pain in the chest. Many people with angina say it feels like someone is standing on their chest

Angioplasty

The reconstitution or recanalization of a blood vessel; may involve balloon dilation, mechanical stripping of intima, forceful injection of fibrinolytics, or placement of a stent

Aneurysm

An abnormal bulge in the wall of an artery. Normally, the walls of arteries are thick and muscular, allowing them to withstand a large amount of pressure. Occasionally, however, a weak area develops in the wall of an artery. This allows the pressure within the artery to push outwards, creating a bulge or ballooned area called an "aneurysm." Aneurysms can form in any blood vessel, but they occur most commonly in the aorta (aortic aneurysm).

Aorta

The aorta is the largest artery in the body. It carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body.

Arrhythmia

Irregular heart beat

Arteriosclerosis

A hardening of the arteries.  Over time, too much pressure in the arteries can make the walls thick and stiff, sometimes restricting blood flow to organs and tissues.  Atherosclerosis is a specific type of arteriosclerosis, but the terms are often used interchangeably.  Although atherosclerosis is often considered a heart problem, it can affect arteries anywhere in the body

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