Division of Cardiology, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Division of Respirology, Division of Clinical Immunology
 |
Director Motoaki Sano |
Our department covers a wide range of clinical, research and educational activities across three divisions: cardiology, nephrology, and clinical immunology
Division of Cardiology
We provide state-of-the-art minimally invasive catheterization by accepting urgent and critical care patients 24 hours a day. We perform prompt emergency catheterization (Primary PCI) for acute myocardial infarction and use mechanical assist circulation such as IMPELLA for patients with cardiogenic shock to improve the life-saving rate. We also use optical coherence tomography (OCT) to evaluate the intracoronary arteries in detail in order to understand the pathophysiology and determine treatment strategies to prevent recurrence. We have formed a Heart Team with cardiovascular surgeons to perform Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) for patients with severe aortic stenosis. We are also actively performing Transcatheter Mitral-Valve Repair (MitraClip) for mitral regurgitation, closure of the foramen ovale to prevent recurrent paradoxical embolism, Transcatheter left atrial appendage closure (WATCHMAN) to prevent embolism caused by atrial fibrillation
In arrhythmia treatment, we perform catheter ablation for tachyarrhythmia. Effective use of 3D mapping for atrial fibrillation and refractory arrhythmias has resulted in good outcomes. Pacemakers for bradyarrhythmia, implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD) for lethal arrhythmias, and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) for severe heart failure are treated using state-of-the-art equipment. We also perform transvenous lead removal for cardiac implantable electronic devices infections.
Division of Nephrology and Hypertension
We accept all kinds of renal diseases including severe cases requiring intensive care management. We are also engaged in various blood purification procedures. For chronic kidney disease, which is rapidly increasing, we provide specialized intervention to improve renal prognosis according to the underlying disease, such as diabetes and hypertension. We are able to take appropriate measures in collaboration with the cardiovascular team for cardiovascular complications that directly affect the prognosis of patients. For nephritis and nephrotic syndrome, the diagnosis is confirmed by renal biopsy, and immunological treatment is provided in accordance with the latest findings, taking into consideration each individual patient's condition. We have extensive experience in renal disorders associated with collagen diseases and vasculitis.
Division of Clinical Immunology
Collagen disease is a disorder caused by abnormalities in autoimmunity, resulting in abnormalities in the skin, muscles, heart, kidneys, lungs, and other organs throughout the body. In the past, glucocorticoids (steroids) were the mainstay of treatment, but in recent years, novel therapeutic agents such as biologics and intracellular signal transduction inhibitors have been applied clinically, and the life expectancy and quality of life of patients with collagen disease have greatly improved. The Department is actively incorporating these therapies into its medical care. Collagen disease has aspects of a systemic disease. Taking advantage of a system in which the three divisions of cardiology, nephrology, and clinical immunology come together for casual consultation, we focus on training clinicians who can examine the entire body.
