Center for Coronary Disease Overview

Coronary artery disease is the nation's leading killer. When plaque builds up in the walls of the coronary arteries, blood flow becomes obstructed, reducing the heart's supply of oxygen. When the obstruction reaches a critical point, a heart attack, or acute myocardial infarction, occurs. Due to this lack of oxygen, heart muscle cells begin to die. An estimated 1.2 million Americans suffer heart attacks each year.

Northwestern Memorial Hospital's Center for Coronary Disease at the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute focuses on treating patients before they develop a fatal heart attack, using the most advanced strategies available in the world.  Mark J. Ricciardi, MD, is the medical director of the Center for Coronary Disease. Dr. Ricciardi leads the team of renowned cardiologists and cardiothoracic surgeons who work together to treat patients who may be at risk for, or those who have already had, a heart attack. Patients with chest pain, abnormal stress tests, strong family histories of coronary disease or other risk factors are carefully evaluated with the latest technologies.

The goal for every patient is a treatment that is long-lasting, low-risk, and as minimally invasive as possible.Treatment strategies include comprehensive lipid (cholesterol) management protocols, percutaneous coronary intervention (angioplasty), coronary arterial bypass surgery and hybrid coronary revascularization. We continue to invest in medical technology to expand our comprehensive approach to the detection and treatment of cardiovascular disease.

Clinical Research

Ongoing clinical research trials in the clinical application of new drugs and devices, in the genetic basis of coronary disease, and in the outcomes of all of the various treatments used, ensure that our patients receive the latest and best treatment.

Emotional and Behavioral Health

Cardiac treatment is most successful when it focuses on the physical, emotional and behavioral health of the patient. Northwestern's Cardiac Behavioral Medicine service was created with the understanding that the mind and body (the heart, in particular) influence each other.

Kim L. Feingold, PhD, director of Cardiac Behavioral Medicine, Gail M. Osterman, PhD, and Paul Goetz, PhD, are clinical cardiac psychologists that specialize in helping patients and their families adjust to a diagnosis and cope with challenges throughout the course of treatment. 

Contact Us Today

For more information regarding coronary artery disease, please call the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute at 1-866-662-8467 or request a first time appointment online.

Clinical Trials

For more information regarding clinical trials related to coronary disease, please view the Clinical Trials Unit of Northwestern page, send an email or call 312-926-4000.