Sutherland Heart Clinic

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Sutherland Heart Clinic

Interventional cardiology hospital co-located at Sutherland Hospital at Caringbah in Sydney’s south. In the case of an emergency please call 000.

We provide 24 hour emergency procedures for patients having heart attacks with pre–hospital triage by the ambulance system (known as the PAPA system). So, whatever the time of day, you will be safe at Sutherland Heart Clinic. The co–location means both private and public patients have access to a highly specialised service regardless of their referral source. This results in larger volumes (more than 3,500 procedures a year) which have been associated with increased safety and improved outcomes. Safety is our number one priority and our team includes highly trained procedural cardiologists, clinical cardiologists, anaesthetists, radiographers, specialist nurses, theatre personnel and administrative staff. Cardiac and vascular surgeons also offer additional support services. In addition to our strong focus on patient safety, Sutherland Heart Clinic also invests heavily in new technology and our radiology equipment is high tech with a focus on delivering low radiation dose procedures to patients. We also use “newer” technologies, including intravascular ultrasound, optical coherence tomography and fractional flow reserve. Sutherland Heart Clinic offers a wide range of procedures including diagnostic studies, angioplasty procedures (with stents) and pacemaker procedures. At Sutherland Heart Clinic, we’re committed to excellence, quality and safety, in addition to research and teaching. Facebook - Terms of Use / House Rules:

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The views, opinions, and information expressed in user-generated comments remain with the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of Sutherland Heart Clinic or its staff. While user generated comments are not edited, to ensure a positive experience for visitors of this site and the broader community, we may report or remove any posts at our discretion or any content or comments containing spam, profanity, or otherwise objectionable or prohibited material. Please note that reviews are turned off on this page in order to maintain compliance with AHPRA guidelines. Healthcare advice:

This site provides health information of a general nature only. It is not intended to be taken as professional health advice. Everyone’s healthcare situation is different, and if you have any healthcare concerns or require any information about your own personal healthcare situation or needs, you are advised to consult a healthcare professional. What to do in an emergency:

This site is not monitored by healthcare professionals. Community management:

This site is monitored Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. If you contact us outside of business hours, we will aim to respond to your message on the next business day. Last reviewed and updated by Sutherland Heart Clinic, January 2022

18/11/2025

While men face a higher risk of heart disease as they age, there’s a lot that can be done to reduce that risk. Regular check-ups and small, consistent changes to daily habits can have a meaningful impact — and it’s never too late to start.

According to the Heart Foundation, men are about 40 % more likely than women to die from cardiovascular disease (CVD) — a group of conditions that includes coronary heart disease, stroke and vascular disease. (heartfoundation.org.au)

And data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows that two-thirds of coronary heart disease hospitalisations occur in people aged 65 and over, most of them men. (aihw.gov.au)

The key is to know your risk and take proactive steps early.

1️⃣ Eat well
Choose more vegetables, fruit, whole grains and lean proteins. Reducing salt, processed foods and saturated fats supports healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

2️⃣ Move more
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days. Brisk walking, swimming or cycling all improve circulation, strengthen the heart muscle and help maintain a healthy weight.

3️⃣ Manage stress and stay connected
Emotional wellbeing matters. Try to build regular time for rest, relaxation and social connection — all of which support better heart health and quality of life.

4️⃣ Quit smoking
If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your heart. Benefits start within weeks and continue to grow over time, no matter your age.

5️⃣ Know your numbers
Have your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar checked regularly. Understanding these results helps you and your GP identify early warning signs before symptoms appear.

Seeing your GP regularly for a heart-health check is one of the most effective ways to understand and manage your individual risk. Simple steps taken now can make a lasting difference to your health and wellbeing.

14/11/2025

If you have an irregular or fast heart rhythm, your cardiologist may discuss a device called an implantable cardioverter defibrillator, or ICD.

An ICD is a small medical device that helps treat certain abnormal heart rhythms using electrical impulses. It continuously monitors your heartbeat and can correct fast or irregular rhythms by delivering a small pacing signal or, if needed, a brief electrical shock to restore a normal rhythm.

The device sits under the skin, usually on the left side of the chest, and is connected to your heart with thin wires (called leads). Once in place, it works continuously to protect you from potentially life-threatening rhythm disturbances.

🫀 Why you might need an ICD
An ICD may be recommended if you have had episodes of fast heart rhythms or are at increased risk due to a previous heart attack, heart failure, or changes in the heart muscle or electrical system. These rhythm disturbances can cause dizziness, fatigue, or fainting — and in some cases, can be serious without treatment.

🫀 What happens during the procedure
Your ICD procedure is performed in one of Sutherland Heart Clinic’s cardiac catheter laboratories and usually takes about one to two hours. You’ll be given either a general anaesthetic or sedation, so you will not feel discomfort. Your cardiologist will create a small pocket under the skin for the device, guide the leads through a vein into the heart, and connect them to the defibrillator. The ICD is tested before the incision is closed.

🫀 After your procedure
Most patients stay overnight so the device can be checked the next day. Your cardiologist will provide advice on caring for your wound, when to resume daily activities, and any precautions for your recovery.

If your doctor has recommended an ICD, they will explain every step and answer any questions you may have before your procedure.

🔗 Read more: https://www.sutherlandheartclinic.com.au/implantable-defibrillator/
📍 Sutherland Heart Clinic, Sutherland Hospital, Caringbah

10/11/2025

This morning at Sutherland Heart Clinic we remember those who served and sacrificed in all wars and conflicts.

We pause and reflect to remember and acknowledge those who served and made sacrifices for our country.

Lest we forget.

07/11/2025

On the International Day of Radiology, Sutherland Heart Clinic recognises the essential role that medical imaging plays in the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease — and the specialist radiology professionals whose expertise supports every procedure performed in interventional cardiology.

Radiology sits at the centre of modern interventional cardiology. Every procedure in our cardiac catheter laboratories — from coronary angiography and angioplasty to pacemaker, defibrillator and TAVI procedures — depends on advanced imaging technology to guide the cardiologist’s work with accuracy and precision.

Through real-time X-ray and imaging guidance, radiographers and interventional cardiologists work side by side to visualise the heart and its blood vessels, navigate catheters, and position devices safely.

This collaboration enables minimally invasive procedures that reduce recovery times and improve outcomes for patients — allowing many cardiac treatments to be performed through a small incision rather than open-heart surgery.

We extend our sincere acknowledgement to the radiology professionals at Sutherland Heart Clinic for their skill, dedication and contribution to patient care. Their expertise is vital to our work.

We also take this opportunity to recognise and thank radiology professionals working in interventional cardiology units across Australia and around the world. Their work has made it possible for interventional cardiology to become one of the most advanced and life-saving areas of modern medicine.

📍 Sutherland Heart Clinic, Sutherland Hospital, Caringbah
🔗 https://www.sutherlandheartclinic.com.au/

03/11/2025

Cholesterol plays an important role in your body, but too much of the wrong type can increase your risk of heart disease.

The foods you eat — and how active you are — have a major impact on keeping your cholesterol at healthy levels.

“Bad” (LDL) cholesterol can build up in the arteries, while “good” (HDL) cholesterol helps remove it. Choosing foods that lower LDL and support HDL is one of the most effective ways to protect your heart.

To protect your heart, start with small, easy changes.

• Eat oats and fruit at breakfast to add soluble fibre to help lower LDL cholesterol.
• Include beans, lentils or chickpeas in lunches and dinners for an extra heart health boost.
• Swap saturated fats like butter for plant-based oils such as olive, canola or sunflower.
• Enjoy fish rich in omega-3s a few times a week.
• Nibble on small handfuls of nuts or seeds as snacks.

These simple habits, combined with regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight, can make a real difference to your heart health over time.

If you’re concerned about your cholesterol, or have been advised to make lifestyle changes after a heart procedure, talk with your GP or cardiologist. They can arrange a cholesterol check and help you develop a plan that’s right for you.

This is general information only. Please speak to your GP or cardiologist for advice that is specific to you.

Keeping your heart healthy is something you can work on every day.

To learn more, visit the Heart Foundation: https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/healthy-living/keeping-your-heart-healthy

27/10/2025

If you have an irregular heart rhythm such as atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter, your cardiologist may recommend a procedure called a cardioversion. This is a minimally invasive, commonly conducted procedure that helps to restore your heart’s normal rhythm.

🫀 How it works
Cardioversion is performed under intravenous sedation. Once you are unconscious, your cardiologist delivers a controlled electrical shock to your heart through electrodes on your chest. This “resets” your heart rhythm. You will not be aware of or feel the shock.

🫀 What to expect
• The procedure itself usually takes around 30 minutes.
• Including admission, preparation, and recovery time, most day-stay patients are at the clinic for three to five hours.
• You’ll be monitored throughout and after the procedure before being discharged home the same day.
• Please arrange for someone to drive you home, as you should not drive or fly for 24 hours after your procedure.

🫀 Before and after
If you are scheduled for a cardioversion at Sutherland Heart Clinic, one of our experienced cardiac nurses will call you before your procedure to confirm your admission time, fasting and medication instructions, and to answer any questions. After discharge, it’s recommended that someone stays with you overnight in case you need assistance.

👉 You can learn more in our full patient explainer here:
https://www.sutherlandheartclinic.com.au/cardioversion/

23/10/2025

Looking for a quick and easy heart-healthy dinner? This oven-baked chicken & quinoa risotto from the Heart Foundation is one of our favourites. It combines creamy comfort with the goodness of protein-rich quinoa.

Oven-Baked Chicken & Quinoa Risotto (Serves 4) | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 45 mins

Ingredients:
🥘 1 tablespoon olive oil
🥘 500g skinless chicken breast fillets, cut into 3cm pieces
🥘 1 medium onion, finely chopped
🥘 2 garlic cloves, crushed
🥘 1 medium zucchini, finely chopped
🥘 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
🥘 1 medium red capsicum, finely chopped
🥘 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
🥘 2 cups reduced-salt chicken stock
🥘 400g can no added salt diced tomatoes
🥘 ½ cup frozen peas
🥘 ⅓ cup finely grated reduced-fat parmesan cheese
🥘 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

Serve warm with a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh basil for a wholesome, heart-smart family meal.

Get the full recipe and step-by-step instructions at the Heart Foundation here:
🔗 https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/recipes/oven-baked-chicken-and-quinoa-risotto

Eastern Heart Clinic proudly supports the Heart Foundation’s mission to help Australians make heart-smart lifestyle choices — because small changes can make a big difference.

📷 Image and recipe credit: Heart Foundation

20/10/2025

Many risk factors for heart disease are within our control — things like diet, physical activity, smoking, and alcohol use. Making positive lifestyle changes in these areas can go a long way to protecting your heart health.

But there are also some risk factors you can’t change. Being aware of them is just as important, because it helps you and your GP plan the right checks and prevention strategies for you.

Here are five key non-modifiable risk factors:

📆 Age
The risk of heart disease increases as you get older. This makes regular Heart Health Checks even more important with age.

👨‍👩‍👧 Family history
If a close relative had a heart attack or stroke before age 60, your risk may be higher. While you can’t change your family history, you can act early to manage other risks.

♀️ Female-specific risk factors
Conditions such as high blood pressure in pregnancy, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and menopause can all raise future heart disease risk. These should be discussed openly with your GP.

🌏 Ethnic background
People of South Asian, Middle Eastern, Maori or Pacific Islander descent face higher risk. In Australia, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are disproportionately affected, often at a younger age.

🏘️ Social environment
Your community, access to healthcare, and opportunities for healthy living also play a role in your heart health.

While these risks can’t be changed, recognising them early means you can take proactive steps. Regular Heart Health Checks, open conversations with your GP, and focusing on the lifestyle factors you can control all help to reduce your overall risk.

15/10/2025

🚑 October is Shocktober – a month dedicated to raising awareness of cardiac arrest and the importance of knowing how to “restart a heart.”

Every year, more than 9,000 people in NSW experience a sudden out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Sadly, only around 12% survive. That’s because for every minute without CPR or defibrillation, the chance of survival falls by up to 10%.

That’s why NSW Ambulance has partnered with the GoodSAM app – a free, life-saving tool that connects trained responders and everyday volunteers to patients in those first critical minutes, while paramedics are on their way.

When a Triple Zero (000) call is made for a cardiac arrest, nearby GoodSAM volunteers receive an alert.

Volunteers can provide CPR and, if available, use a nearby defibrillator (AED) to restart the person’s heart.

NSW Ambulance has now linked the public defibrillator registry into the app, so volunteers know exactly where to find the closest AED.

Since launching in 2023, GoodSAM has already helped directly save lives here in NSW – and anyone over 18 can register. You don’t need formal training to help; just a willingness to step in and start chest compressions until paramedics arrive.

This Restart a Heart Day, ask yourself: would you know what to do if someone nearby collapsed from cardiac arrest?

Learn the three simple steps that save lives:
• Call 000
• Push hard and fast on the chest
• Shock with a defibrillator, if available

You can learn more about the GoodSAM app and registering to become a volunteer at: www.ambulance.nsw.gov.au/goodsam

Video credit: Ambulance NSW

13/10/2025

Love what you eat, love your heart ❤️

This National Nutrition Week (13–19 October), we’re celebrating the joy of food — not just as fuel, but as something that nourishes our bodies, supports our wellbeing, and brings people together.

One of the most powerful ways you can protect your heart health is through what’s on your plate. The Heart Foundation’s 5-step heart-healthy eating pattern shows that small, long-term changes really do make a big difference.

Here’s how you can get started:

🥦 Eat plenty of vegetables, fruit and wholegrains
Fill half your plate with colourful vegetables and fruit, and swap refined carbs for wholegrain bread, rice, pasta and oats. Fibre helps lower cholesterol and supports heart health.

🥜 Choose healthy proteins
Opt for legumes, beans, nuts, and seeds, along with fish and seafood. Include smaller amounts of lean poultry and eggs, and limit red meat to 1–3 times per week.

🥛 Enjoy unflavoured dairy
Milk, yoghurt and cheese can provide valuable calcium and protein. Choose unflavoured varieties with no added sugar, and reduced-fat options if you have high cholesterol or heart disease.

🥑 Include healthy fats
Avocados, olives, nuts, seeds, and heart-healthy oils like olive and canola are all good choices. Aim for 2–3 serves of fish each week to benefit from omega-3s.

🌿 Flavour with herbs and spices, not salt
Excess salt can raise blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart disease. Swap the salt shaker for garlic, lemon, chilli, fresh herbs and spices.

💡 Remember: eating well for your heart doesn’t mean cutting out the foods you love. It’s about balance, variety, and enjoying meals that are both delicious and nourishing.

This week is the perfect time to make one small change you can keep going — and show your heart some love.

For even more heart-healthy inspiration, visit the Heart Foundation’s website — a one-stop resource for recipes, meal plans, and practical tools to support your heart health: https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/healthy-living/healthy-eating/heart-healthy-eating-pattern

09/10/2025

Did you know your mental health and heart health are closely linked?

Research shows that living with a mental health condition such as anxiety or depression can increase your risk of heart disease.

Stressors like loneliness, social isolation and work pressures can also affect both your emotional wellbeing and your heart.

The good news is that mental health conditions can be managed safely and effectively, even for those already living with heart disease. Early support makes a real difference.

Anxiety is more than everyday stress or worry. Symptoms can include a racing heart, tightness in the chest, difficulty breathing or obsessive thoughts. It is the most common mental health condition in Australia.

Depression goes beyond feeling low—it can cause loss of interest in activities, sleep disturbance, fatigue, and negative thoughts that persist for weeks or months.

Around 3 million Australians live with depression or anxiety, and many of them also live with heart disease. Left untreated, these conditions can make recovery harder and increase the risk of further heart problems.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression:
• Talk to your GP as a first step.
• Let your cardiologist or healthcare team know, so they too can support your care.
• Reach out to support services such as Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) or Head to Health (1800 595 212).

Taking action for your mental health is also an important step for your heart. 💙
• Learn more about the link between mental health and heart disease: https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/your-heart/mental-health-and-heart-disease
• Find mental health support: https://www.headtohealth.gov.au/

06/10/2025

If you or a loved one are scheduled for a trans-oesophageal echocardiography (TOE) at Sutherland Heart Clinic, here’s what the procedure involves and what you can expect on the day.

🫀 What is a TOE?
A TOE is a specialised ultrasound test performed under sedation. An ultrasound probe is gently guided down your throat into the oesophagus (the food pipe), which lies close behind the heart. This allows your cardiologist to capture clear, detailed images of your heart and aorta.

🫀 Why is it done?
Your cardiologist may recommend a TOE to:
• Assess problems with a heart valve and determine whether repair or replacement is possible
• Guide certain procedures, such as closing a hole between heart chambers or placing a device
• Check for blood clots in the heart before a cardioversion (a controlled electric shock used to restore normal heart rhythm)

🫀 How long does it take?
The procedure itself usually takes around 30 minutes. You’ll then be monitored closely while you recover from sedation. Most patients stay at the clinic for two to three hours afterwards before going home. If you are also having a cardioversion, your stay may be longer (around four hours).

🫀What to expect afterwards
You will not be able to drive or fly for 24 hours after your procedure, so please arrange for someone to take you home. It is also recommended that a family member or support person stays with you overnight in case you need assistance.

Your doctor and the SHC team will provide specific fasting, medication, and preparation instructions before your procedure, and one of our staff will confirm the details with you the day before.

👉 Learn more in our patient guide here: https://www.sutherlandheartclinic.com.au/transoesophageal-echo/

Address

Level 2, The Sutherland Hospital, Kingsway & Kareena Road
Sydney, NSW
2229

Website

https://www.sutherlandheartclinic.com.au/

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