Knowing I needed to find a cardiologist in my home community post surgery, left me a little disappointed to leave the confines of Stanford’s outstanding care. After two years it seemed a good idea to reach out to see who might be the “lucky” doctor to get a patient like me. I’m pleased to say that the gentleman I was fortunate to be introduced to turned out to be very knowledgable about our condition and we had a very nice first consultation. Meeting Dr. Diwakar Lingam was a breath of fresh air as you’re going to hear in this episode. His expertise offered reassurance, reminding me what a crucial role a well-informed cardiologist plays. This episode unfolds my first encounter with Dr. Lingam, a cardiologist who not only understood the complexities of our condition but also embraced the opportunity to share insights with our listeners. With his guidance, we explore what patients should seek in their healthcare providers, especially when navigating the oft-overlooked terrain of myocardial bridges.

You’ll hear me explain my personal medical narrative, from the initial bewildering diagnosis to the life-changing care I received at Stanford. Myocardial bridges are not just a medical anomaly but involve genetic factors and precise surgical interventions like unroofing surgery, which we dissect in our first discussion. Dr. Lingam understood the value of proper diagnosis, the role of advanced imaging techniques, and the often-missed symptoms that can complicate the path to treatment. This is a call to action for the cardiology community to bolster awareness and refine diagnostic approaches.

Not many doctors would feel comfortable with a new patient, walking in with a recording device and asking to record the conversation in that very first meeting. Dr. Lingam was and I applaud him for his acceptance as this very simple gesture alone may allow this episode to be shared with other cardiologists who may not be as astute and aware of the need to treat a diagnosed MB patient differently.

You can reach out to Dr. Lingam or share his contact information with a cardiologist you may want to connect with him at Roseville Cardiology Group.

BIO

Diwakar Lingam, M. D. graduated from Siddhartha Medical College, NTR University of Health Sciences, Vijayawada, India in 1994. He completed his residency at State University of New York (SUNY) Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY where he served as a Chief Resident of Internal Medicine. He completed his fellowship in Cardiovascular Disease from Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire.

Dr. Lingam strongly believes in solid patient education to improve patient compliance with treatment and better health outcomes. He strives hard to help patients understand clearly the rationale behind all the tests, treatment choices and medications prescribed. He focuses his patient education on lifestyle changes and the value of diet and exercise in the management of many cardiac and medical issues of the patient.

Dr. Lingam’s clinical interests are preventive cardiology, cardiac imaging, and cardio-oncology. He loves to help patients with cancer treatment-related cardiac issues and patients interested in preventing cardiac and vascular problems.

He lives in Folsom with his wife and two children. During his free time, he enjoys biking, playing chess, and spending time with family.

(00:11) New Cardiologist Discusses Myocardial Bridges

Meeting a new cardiologist after myocardial bridge surgery, discussing the importance of informed and empathetic care in cardiology.

(04:51) Myocardial Bridges

Myocardial bridges, unroofing surgery, genetic nature, accurate diagnosis, specialized care, radiation exposure, contrast use, diabetic patients, continued research.

(17:30) Follow-Up Consultation on Treatment Plan

Specialized centers, robotic surgery, statins, and follow-up care are important in treating cardiac conditions.

(27:32) Support Group for Myocardial Bridges

Support and resources for myocardial bridge patients, join Facebook group, visit website, share with loved ones, encourage positivity and gratitude.