Dr. Shehab El Atraby

Dr. Shehab El Atraby is a highly specialized cardiologist and interventional cardiology expert with advanced experience in diagnosing and managing complex coronary artery disease. He is particularly recognized for his expertise in treating Chronic Total Occlusions (CTO), one of the most challenging areas in modern interventional cardiology.

He serves as an Associate Professor of Cardiology at Ain Shams University and is a Fellow of the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (FSCAI). He also serves as Vice Chairman of the Cardiac Catheterization Section of the Egyptian Society of Cardiology, reflecting his active role in advancing the field of interventional cardiology and adopting the latest international techniques for complex coronary interventions.

Dr. Shehab El Atraby focuses on accurate diagnosis, comprehensive cardiovascular assessment, and advanced catheter-based solutions for patients with complex coronary artery disease, including cases that were traditionally considered difficult to treat.

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Coronary artery disease is one of the most common cardiovascular conditions and occurs when cholesterol and fatty deposits gradually accumulate inside the arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle.

As these arteries become narrowed or blocked, blood flow and oxygen delivery to the heart are reduced, increasing the risk of serious cardiac complications.

Why does it happen?

• High cholesterol levels
• Diabetes mellitus
• Smoking
• High blood pressure
• Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
• Genetic predisposition

Possible symptoms

• Chest pain or pressure
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue during physical activity
• Angina
• Heart attacks in advanced cases

The severity of symptoms often depends on the degree of blockage and the number of affected coronary arteries.

Chronic Total Occlusion (CTO)

Chronic Total Occlusion (CTO) represents one of the most complex conditions encountered in interventional cardiology.

A CTO occurs when a coronary artery becomes completely blocked for an extended period of time, significantly reducing or stopping normal blood flow to a portion of the heart muscle.

Historically, many CTO patients were referred directly for bypass surgery or managed conservatively because of the technical challenges involved. However, advances in interventional cardiology have made it possible to successfully treat many of these cases using highly specialized catheter-based techniques.

Why are CTO cases considered complex?

• The artery is completely blocked rather than partially narrowed.
• The blockage often exists for months or years.
• Dense calcification and fibrotic tissue may develop inside the artery.
• Specialized expertise and advanced procedural strategies are required to restore blood flow.

Dr. Shehab El Atraby is recognized for his expertise in evaluating and managing complex CTO cases, utilizing advanced interventional techniques to address some of the most challenging coronary artery blockages.

Multivessel Coronary Artery Disease

Some patients develop narrowing or blockage in multiple coronary arteries simultaneously, which can significantly affect heart function and overall quality of life.

Possible symptoms

• Shortness of breath during exertion
• Recurrent chest pain
• Reduced exercise tolerance
• Persistent fatigue
• Limitation of daily activities

Dr. Shehab El Atraby has extensive experience in assessing multivessel coronary disease and other high-risk cardiac conditions that require advanced interventional planning and decision-making.

Chronic Stable Angina

Angina occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood during physical activity or emotional stress.

Common symptoms

• Chest discomfort or pressure
• Burning or heaviness in the chest
• Shortness of breath
• Pain radiating to the arm, shoulder, neck, or jaw

Persistent or worsening angina may indicate significant coronary artery disease that requires detailed cardiovascular evaluation.

Heart Failure Related to Coronary Artery Disease

When reduced blood supply affects the heart muscle over a prolonged period, cardiac pumping function may gradually decline, leading to heart failure symptoms.

Possible symptoms

• Shortness of breath
• Leg swelling
• Persistent fatigue
• Reduced physical capacity

Early identification of underlying coronary disease is essential for preserving long-term heart function and preventing further deterioration.

Advanced Procedures & Areas of Expertise

Diagnostic Cardiac Catheterization

Used to accurately assess coronary arteries and identify the location and severity of arterial disease.

Interventional Coronary Procedures

Advanced catheter-based techniques for treating coronary artery narrowing and blockages while restoring blood flow to the heart muscle.

Chronic Total Occlusion (CTO) Intervention

One of the most advanced and technically demanding fields in interventional cardiology, requiring specialized expertise and procedural planning to manage complete long-standing coronary blockages.

Management of High-Risk Coronary Cases

Including patients with complex coronary anatomy, multiple arterial blockages, and challenging cardiovascular conditions.

Advanced Intravascular Imaging & Catheter-Based Assessment

Used to provide detailed visualization of coronary arteries and support precise procedural decision-making.

Academic Qualifications & Professional Memberships

• Associate Professor of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University.
• Fellow of the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (FSCAI).
• Vice Chairman of the Cardiac Catheterization Section, Egyptian Society of Cardiology.
• Expert in Complex Coronary Interventions and Chronic Total Occlusion (CTO) Procedures.

 

Dr. Shehab El Atraby is recognized as a leading specialist in interventional cardiology, with particular expertise in complex coronary artery disease and Chronic Total Occlusion (CTO) interventions. By combining academic excellence with advanced interventional skills, he provides highly specialized care for some of the most challenging cardiovascular conditions.

Booking Through Macrocare

Appointments with Dr. Shehab El Atraby can be arranged through Macrocare, including medical report review, appointment coordination, and comprehensive treatment planning support.