Advances in interventional cardiology: beyond the balloon.

The world of interventional cardiology has changed dramatically since the advent of balloon angioplasty. New therapies have evolved over the past decade as knowledge of the pathophysiology of heart disease has increased. Nurses who have an understanding of this pathophysiology will be better equipped to manage and educate their patients, teaching them about current and future interventional therapies. This article reviews the pathophysiology of heart disease, current interventional therapies, and the future directions for interventional cardiology nursing practice.