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Cardiovascular disease and treatments

Organisation • Animal tissues, organs and systems

Key concepts

What you'll likely be quizzed about

  • Atherosclerosis refers to the process where fatty material accumulates on artery walls.
  • This buildup reduces the diameter of coronary arteries, decreasing blood flow to cardiac muscle.
  • High blood cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, and poor diet promote plaque formation, narrowing arteries and limiting oxygen and glucose supply to heart cells.
  • Damage or death to these cells can lead to chest pain, known as angina, or a heart attack.
  • Factors affecting the severity of outcomes include the location and extent of artery narrowing as well as the existence of collateral circulation.

Flashcards

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What is the function of coronary arteries?

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Coronary arteries supply oxygenated blood, glucose, and other nutrients necessary for heart muscle contraction.

Key notes

Important points to keep in mind

Atherosclerosis results from plaque buildup, narrowing arteries and reducing blood flow.

Stents quickly restore artery diameter but require antiplatelet medication and have a risk of restenosis.

Statins lower cholesterol production in the liver; benefits depend on long-term use.

Artificial hearts and VADs serve as temporary solutions, allowing for recovery or bridging to transplant.

Donor transplants involve matching and lifelong immunosuppression for success.

Faulty valves lead to reduced efficiency; choice of replacement balances longevity and anticoagulation needs.

Modifiable risk factors include diet, smoking, exercise, weight, and alcohol; managing these reduces CHD progression.

Treatment choice hinges on severity, patient health, and available resources; less invasive options are preferred.

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