Cardiology is a medical specialty focused on the heart and its functions. Cardiologists are doctors who specialize in diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases and conditions related to the cardiovascular system. This includes issues like heart disease, heart attacks, heart failure, and abnormalities in heart rhythm. They use various diagnostic tools like echocardiograms, EKGs, and stress tests to assess heart health and may prescribe medications, lifestyle changes, or perform procedures like angiography and angioplasty to treat heart circulation conditions.
Cardiothoracic surgery is a specialty within surgery that deals with surgeries of the heart, lungs and other organs within the chest. Cardiothoracic surgeons are highly trained in performing procedures such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), heart valve repairs/replacements, heart and lung transplants, and surgeries to treat diseases of the lungs and chest cavity.
While cardiologists primarily focus on the non-surgical aspects of heart care such as diagnosis and management of heart conditions, cardiothoracic surgeons specialize in surgical procedures related to the heart and chest.
Both specialties work closely together in the treatment and care of patients with cardiovascular diseases, often collaborating to provide comprehensive care from diagnosis through treatment and recovery.
1. Dr. Dhaval H. Shah.