The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) says its Cardiology Department is providing specialised diagnostic, emergency and long-term care to patients with a range of heart conditions from across Guyana.
The department, which GPHC described as the country’s main referral centre for cardiac care, operates a 13-bed Coronary Care Unit for patients experiencing serious cardiac emergencies, including heart attacks.
According to Head of Cardiology Dr Michael Chin, the department treats patients with both acute and chronic conditions. It also operates specialised clinics for general cardiology, heart failure, congenital heart disease, heart disease associated with pregnancy and patients who have undergone coronary interventions.
One of the most common conditions treated is coronary artery disease, which occurs when the blood vessels supplying the heart become narrowed or blocked. Patients may experience chest pains or arrive at the hospital during a heart attack and require urgent investigation and treatment.
The department also manages heart failure, abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation, heart-valve conditions and congenital heart disease.
GPHC said several tests are used to examine the structure and functioning of the heart. These include electrocardiograms, which record its electrical activity; echocardiograms, which use ultrasound to assess its structure and function; and stress tests for some patients experiencing chest pain.
Patients requiring closer examination of the heart’s blood vessels may undergo a coronary angiogram. In some emergencies, the procedure can identify a blocked artery and allow doctors to restore blood flow through the insertion of a stent.
Treatment may also involve the insertion of a pacemaker for patients whose hearts are beating too slowly. Patients with certain abnormal rhythms may require an electrophysiology study and specialised treatment.
The department’s team comprises cardiologists, junior doctors, internal medicine and cardiology residents, specialist nurses, sonographers, electrocardiogram technicians and stress-test personnel.
Chin said effective cardiology care extended beyond responding to emergencies and required patients to receive consistent and appropriate treatment throughout their care.
According to GPHC, the department follows international clinical guidelines when making decisions about medication, investigations and interventions. These measures are intended to reduce complications, illness and deaths associated with cardiovascular disease.
The hospital said continuing training for doctors and nurses was also an important part of the department’s work, allowing healthcare professionals to maintain their skills and remain abreast of advances in cardiac care.
GPHC added that early identification of risks, timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment could significantly improve outcomes for patients with cardiovascular disease.
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