The Vithas Cardiovascular Institute has established itself as a benchmark in the field of cardiology, offering an innovative care model, equipped with advanced technology and a team of highly qualified professionals that are easily accessible.
Detecting rare medical conditions requires an exceptional medical team. This was the case for Mónica Sánchez, who in January 2023 went to the Vithas Madrid La Milagrosa University Hospital due to severe back pain, which turned out to be an atypical heart attack, difficult to identify without the necessary resources and expertise.
Initially, Mónica thought her pain was the result of a recent fall. However, her cardiologist, Cristina, suspected something more serious. Mónica recounts her astonishment upon discovering she had suffered a heart attack and expresses her deep gratitude towards her cardiologist, whom she considers her guardian angel.
Mónica’s treatment took place at the Vithas Madrid La Milagrosa University Hospital, an integral part of the Vithas Cardiovascular Institute (ICV), recognized as the first cardiological center of excellence in Madrid.
Cristina Sánchez, a clinical cardiologist at the hospital, explains that Mónica’s case was unusual, characterized by the dissection of a coronary artery, a phenomenon more common in women due to hormonal factors and not associated with the usual cardiovascular risks. According to data from the Spanish Society of Cardiology, up to 30% of heart attacks in women under 60 are caused by this type of dissections.
The prompt response and coordinated work of the ICV team were crucial. After a series of tests, Cristina and her team performed a catheterization to examine Mónica’s coronary arteries. Dr. Sánchez emphasizes the importance of speed and coordination in heart attack care.
Dr. Fernando Sánchez Perales, the medical director of the Hospital, highlights the ambition and quality of the Vithas Cardiovascular Institute, pointing out its advanced technology and the prestige of its professionals.
The ICV promotes personalized and patient-centered cardiac care. Dr. Cristina Sánchez underscores the importance of centering medical attention on the patient, providing them with the necessary tools for a comprehensive understanding of their condition and the importance of medication and prevention.
Heart attacks in women often present atypical symptoms, and Dr. Sánchez notes that they are often diagnosed later than in men. Mónica expresses her gratitude towards those who encouraged her to seek medical attention.
Dr. Sánchez warns about the consequences of an undiagnosed heart attack and underscores that most heart attacks can be prevented by leading a healthy lifestyle and controlling classic risk factors.
From her experience, Mónica has adopted a healthier lifestyle, including daily exercise and a strict medication regimen, which has allowed her to recover satisfactorily and feel in optimal condition.
