What is the term used for catheter-based treatments for heart diseases?

The term "interventional cardiology" specifically refers to a branch of cardiology that deals with catheter-based treatments for heart diseases. This field encompasses a variety of procedures that are performed using catheters, which are thin tubes inserted into blood vessels. These procedures are minimally invasive and can include techniques such as angioplasty, stenting, and other interventions to treat conditions like coronary artery disease, heart valve disorders, and other cardiovascular issues.

Interventional cardiology is distinguished from other cardiovascular specialties due to its focus on therapeutic techniques rather than solely diagnostic methods. In this context, the expertise of interventional cardiologists is crucial for managing acute conditions and performing complex procedures that improve patient outcomes.

Other options, while related to the field of cardiology, do not accurately describe catheter-based treatments. Electrophysiology deals primarily with the electrical activities of the heart, cardiac rehabilitation focuses on recovery after heart events through lifestyle changes and exercise, and non-invasive cardiology emphasizes diagnostic methods rather than intervention. Thus, interventional cardiology emerges as the most precise term for the practices involving catheter-based treatments for heart diseases.