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Coronary Artery Disease

A woman and her grandmother stroll happily through a park

If you’ve been diagnosed with coronary artery disease, you probably have questions and concerns about the future of your heart health. Our team is here to help. We’ll discuss your options and plan your treatment together. 

We also offer education, support and encouragement to help you adopt healthy habits for life. We’re proud to have one of the most comprehensive intensive cardiac rehabilitation programs in the nation. Your path to better health starts here, and we’ll be by your side every step of the way.

What Is Coronary Artery Disease?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the leading causes of heart attack. CAD occurs when fatty deposits (plaques) build up inside the walls of the arteries that carry blood into the heart. This process, called atherosclerosis, narrows the arteries and prevents blood from flowing to the heart as it should. To work properly, the heart needs an adequate blood supply.

CAD often progresses gradually, which is why some people don’t notice any symptoms at first. As the disease progresses, you may experience chest pain or discomfort (angina), shortness of breath, dizziness and fatigue. CAD can also lead to heart attack and sudden death. 

More than 16 million Americans have coronary artery disease. It’s the leading cause of death in the U.S. Both women and men are at risk of heart disease. You have a higher chance of developing CAD if you: 

  • Are a man over age 65, though the risk for women is almost as high as it is for men
  • Have a family history of heart disease
  • Smoke
  • Have high blood pressure, high cholesterol or high triglycerides
  • Have obesity
  • Are not physically active
  • Have diabetes, especially if it’s not under control
  • Live with high levels of stress and anxiety 

Coronary Artery Disease Treatment at Trinity Health Michigan: Why Choose Us?

As leaders in coronary artery disease treatment, our cardiologists and cardiovascular surgeons use minimally invasive techniques and advanced robotic surgery procedures.

At Trinity Health Michigan we are:

  • Leaders in minimally invasive procedures: We were the first community hospital to perform elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and the third community hospital in Michigan to offer emergency PCI (also known as emergency angioplasty). Our cardiac catheterization labs and hybrid OR enable us to provide less-invasive procedures with better outcomes. 
     
  • Innovators in cardiovascular surgery: Our cardiovascular surgeons perform a high number of coronary bypass surgeries every year to treat CAD. We use the da Vinci® robotic system for accurate, effective robotic surgery procedures. This revolutionary technology reduces recovery time and lowers the risk of complications. Learn more about cardiovascular surgery. 
     
  • Committed to your well-being: Our innovative intensive cardiac rehab program features a holistic plan that includes exercise, nutrition and mindfulness. Dietitians, exercise physiologists and yoga therapists work with you to adopt healthy habits and stay on track for life.

Treatments for CAD

Coronary artery disease is a serious condition, and treatment can help. Through our Prevention and Wellness programs, we offer encouragement, guidance and support to help you adopt positive habits for a healthier lifestyle.

Your doctor may recommend:

  • Dietary changes, including foods that are lower in fat, sodium and cholesterol
  • Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and getting more exercise
  • Medications, including drugs to control high blood pressure or high cholesterol

Your doctor may also recommend a procedure to open up clogged arteries and restore blood flow. At St. Joes, our specially trained heart experts offer:

  • PCI: During this minimally invasive procedure, your cardiologist uses a catheter to insert a stent (a tiny tube) inside the artery to keep it open and allow blood to flow. PCIs (also called angioplasty with stent) have fewer complications and require less recovery time than traditional open surgery. 
     
  • Cardiovascular surgery: The most common surgery for CAD is a heart bypass. Your surgeon replaces the diseased artery with a healthy blood vessel from another part of your body to restore blood flow to your heart. Our cardiovascular surgery department has excellent outcomes and high patient satisfaction.