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:

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Implant

To insert or fix in a living site (as for growth, slow release, or formation of an organic union)

Interventional Cardiology

An important part of treatment for patients with disease of the heart, blood vessels or coronary artery disease. These treatments involve “intervening” to open blocked or clogged arteries to improve blood flow to and from the heart.  Examples of interventional treatments: angioplasty, stents, and clot extraction.

Ischemic stroke

Similar to a heart attack, except it occurs in the blood vessels of the brain. Clots can form either in the brain's blood vessels, in blood vessels leading to the brain or even blood vessels elsewhere in the body which then travel to the brain. These clots block blood flow to the brain's cells. Ischemic stroke can also occur when too much plaque (fatty deposits and cholesterol) clogs the brain's blood vessels. About 80% of all strokes are of this nature.

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