Cardiac Catheterization and Interventional Cardiology

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When your child needs heart treatment, you want options that are safe, effective, and designed for growing bodies. Our cardiac catheterization and interventional cardiology program uses advanced, minimally invasive procedures to diagnose and treat heart conditions — often without the need for open‑heart surgery.

Our interventional cardiologists work closely with cardiac surgeons, anesthesiologists, and ICU specialists to create a personalized plan for every child, helping them recover more comfortably and return to the activities they love.

Minimally invasive treatment options for children

Catheter‑based procedures allow us to repair and treat heart problems using thin, flexible tubes inserted through a vein or artery — avoiding large incisions whenever possible. Using advanced imaging and specialized tools, our interventional cardiologists can:

  • Close holes in the heart
  • Open narrowed heart valves
  • Widen or support blood vessels
  • Replace selected heart valves

These approaches often result in less pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery, and many children go home the same day or the next day. For some patients, catheter‑based treatment can delay—or even eliminate—the need for surgery.

Collaborative care for complex heart conditions

Some children benefit most from a combination of catheter‑based and surgical care. Our interventional cardiologists and cardiac surgeons collaborate closely — sometimes performing hybrid procedures that combine both approaches in a single plan of care.

This integrated model allows us to select the safest and most effective treatment for each child, whether the procedure takes place in the cardiac catheterization lab, the operating room, or both.

Our approach to care

Your child’s safety, comfort, and long‑term heart health guide every decision we make.

  • Team‑based expertise. Each procedure is performed by pediatric cardiologists, anesthesiologists, nurses, and technologists who specialize in caring for children with heart disease.
  • Advanced imaging and monitoring. We use real‑time imaging and precise monitoring to guide procedures and ensure accuracy.
  • Built‑in safety. For children with complex anatomy or higher risk, pediatric cardiac surgeons and ICU teams are immediately available.
  • Personalized planning. Every procedure is chosen to match your child’s diagnosis, age, and long‑term goals.

Families are supported before, during, and after procedures, with clear communication and coordinated follow‑up.

Our tests and treatments

  • Diagnostic cardiac catheterization
  • Device closure of atrial and ventricular septal defects (ASD/VSD)
  • Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) closure
  • Balloon valvuloplasty
  • Stent placement
  • Transcatheter valve replacement
  • Device removal

Conditions we treat

  • Atrial septal defects (ASD)
  • Ventricular septal defects (VSD)
  • Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)
  • Pulmonary valve stenosis
  • Pulmonary atresia
  • Aortic valve stenosis
  • Pulmonary artery stenosis
  • Pulmonary vein stenosis
  • Coarctation of the aorta
  • Complex congenital heart defects requiring hybrid procedures
  • Device‑ or catheter‑related complications

Ready to learn more about catheter-based treatment options for your child’s heart condition?

When you call, we’ll help you find a provider who meets your needs.
Call 1-888-573-5437 Request an appointment Refer a patient

Locations and Offices

Pediatric Specialty Clinic (2 JPP)
2800 John Pappajohn Pavilion (JPP)
Elevator I, Level 2
1-319-356-2229
Clinic
Pediatric Specialty Clinic Main Entrance
In Stead Family Children's Hospital
200 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, IA 52242