What is a Heart Valve Specialist?
A Heart Valve Specialist is a medical professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of heart valve disorders. The role of a heart valve specialist is to assess and diagnose heart valve abnormalities and then treat them through a variety of medical interventions, surgeries and other therapies. Heart valve specialists work closely with cardiologists, surgeons and other medical professionals to evaluate and treat heart valve conditions.
Job Responsibilities
Heart Valve Specialists are responsible for:
- Diagnosing and evaluating heart valve complications and disorders.
- Undertaking non-surgical interventions, such as the placement of stents or valve replacements.
- Performing imaging studies to assess the heart.
- Formulating and executing treatment plans.
- Prescribing medications to manage heart valve conditions.
- Performing and assisting with surgical procedures.
- Post-surgical follow-up with patients.
Skills Required
Heart Valve Specialists need certain technical, administrative and interpersonal skills, such as:
- Excellent knowledge of cardiac anatomy and physiology.
- Excellent ability to identify and diagnose heart valve conditions.
- Excellent ability to perform non-surgical and surgical interventions.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Strong interpersonal skills for effective communication with patients and their families.
- Ability to work with a team of medical professionals.
- Ability to maintain accurate medical records.
Education Requirements
To become a Heart Valve Specialist, one will need to complete a medical degree followed by specialty training in cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery. After completing medical school and a residency program, individuals must complete a fellowship program in either cardiology and/or cardiothoracic surgery to specialize in heart valve treatment. In addition, many heart valve specialists become board certified in their respective specialty and obtain additional experience through research and additional study.