Frequently Asked Questions

An interventional cardiologist is a cardiologist with additional, specialized fellowship training in catheter-based procedures used to diagnose and treat heart and vascular disease — often as a minimally invasive alternative to open surgery.

Many patients are referred by a primary care physician after symptoms such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, palpitations, or an abnormal test result. Others seek an evaluation because of a family history of heart disease or risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes. If you're unsure, a conversation with your primary care provider is a reasonable first step.

All interventional cardiologists are cardiologists, but not all cardiologists perform interventional procedures. Interventional cardiologists complete additional fellowship training focused on catheter-based diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease, typically after a general cardiovascular medicine fellowship.

Dr. Tukaye's clinical interests include the interventional management of adult coronary artery disease, structural cardiovascular disease, pulmonary vascular disease, and peripheral vascular disease, along with general cardiovascular evaluation. Visit the Areas of Expertise page for more detail.

Chest pain should always be taken seriously. If you are experiencing sudden, severe, or crushing chest pain, or chest pain accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or pain radiating to the arm or jaw, call 911 immediately — this can be a sign of a medical emergency. For chest discomfort that is milder or has been present over time, schedule an evaluation with a physician.

It helps to bring a list of your current medications and dosages, a summary of your relevant medical history, any recent test results or imaging, and a list of your symptoms and questions. Knowing your family's cardiovascular history is also valuable.

Bring a valid photo ID, your insurance information, a list of current medications, any relevant prior test results or imaging, and a referral if required by your insurance plan. Specific insurance and intake details will be confirmed on the Contact page.