Hospital Services

Minimally-invasive heart procedures at St. Joseph’s/Candler

Your heart’s health is our priority. When a condition requires hospital-based care, we provide advanced, minimally invasive procedures that focus on restoring heart function with faster recovery times. Some procedures require surgery and a short hospital stay, while others are non-surgical and performed on an outpatient basis. Our experienced cardiologists and medical team are here to ensure you receive the highest level of care with the least disruption to your daily life.

Cardiac catheterization & stenting

If you’re experiencing chest pain, your doctor may recommend a cardiac catheterization to determine whether you have heart disease or a blocked artery. This procedure allows for both diagnosis and treatment if a blockage is found.

Before the procedure, it’s important to inform your doctor about any medications you’re taking and any chronic conditions, such as diabetes. During the procedure, you will be given medication to help you relax, but you may remain awake. A small incision is made in the upper thigh, neck, or arm and a thin catheter is inserted into your artery. Using real-time imaging, your doctor guides the catheter to your heart to examine blood flow and detect blockages.

If a blockage is confirmed, your doctor may perform angioplasty—inflating a balloon to widen the artery—or place a stent, a small mesh or fabric tube that keeps the artery open and improves blood flow. You may feel slight pressure or mild discomfort when the stent is placed.

After the procedure, the catheter is removed, and a bandage is applied. You will stay in the hospital for several hours or overnight for monitoring. Some soreness at the incision site is normal, and your doctor will advise you on when you can resume daily activities.

Pacemakers: Restoring a healthy heart rhythm

A pacemaker is a small device implanted under the skin to regulate abnormal or slow heartbeats (arrhythmia). It sends low-energy electrical pulses to help the heart maintain a normal rhythm.

Before the Procedure

Your doctor will provide specific instructions on medications, and you’ll be asked to avoid eating or drinking after midnight before the procedure. Arrive at the hospital in comfortable clothing and leave valuables at home, as you will change into a hospital gown.

During the Procedure

You will receive IV medication to help you relax, but you will remain awake. A small incision is made near your chest, and your doctor will use imaging guidance to correctly place the pacemaker. You may feel slight pulling or pressure as the device is adjusted. If you experience any significant discomfort, inform your doctor immediately.

Recovery & Aftercare

• Some patients go home the same day, while others stay overnight for observation.
• You will receive instructions on activity restrictions, such as lifting and exercise, and when you can return to work.
• Avoid certain electrical devices that may interfere with your pacemaker’s function.

Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD): Preventing dangerous arrhythmias

An ICD is a specialized device used for patients at risk of life-threatening heart rhythm disturbances. It monitors the heartbeat and delivers low-level electrical shocks to restore a normal rhythm when necessary. ICDs are used for adults, children, and teens with serious arrhythmias. The procedure is similar to a pacemaker implantation. You will receive IV medication to help you relax, and your doctor will numb the incision site before placing the ICD. Using a special monitor for guidance, your doctor will ensure the device is correctly positioned.

Recovery typically involves a short hospital stay of one to two days for monitoring. Some discomfort at the incision site is expected, and your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days, with specific guidelines provided for lifting, exercise and returning to work.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR): Non-invasive alternative

For patients diagnosed with aortic stenosis, where the heart’s aortic valve becomes narrowed and restricts blood flow, TAVR offers a safe and effective alternative to open-heart surgery. Symptoms of aortic stenosis may include:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Dizziness or fainting
• Fatigue

If open-heart surgery is too high-risk for you, TAVR may be a better option. This minimally invasive procedure allows for the replacement of the damaged valve without opening the chest. A thin catheter is inserted into an artery, usually through the leg or groin, and guided to the heart. A collapsible valve is then positioned in place of the old valve and begins working immediately, improving blood flow and heart function.

Unlike traditional valve replacement, which requires months of recovery, most TAVR patients recover within days. The procedure has been widely used since 2011, with thousands of patients worldwide experiencing excellent results. Your doctor will discuss all potential risks and benefits with you to ensure it’s the right choice for your condition.

Expert care for your heart health

We understand that heart procedures can feel overwhelming, but our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Our highly skilled cardiologists specialize in minimally invasive treatments designed to restore heart function with less downtime, faster recovery. We take a personalized approach to cardiac care, ensuring that you receive the treatment best suited to your condition and lifestyle. Whether you need a stent to open a blocked artery  a pacemaker to regulate your heartbeat, or a valve replacement to restore proper blood flow, you can trust that you’re in expert hands.