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:

This page is open to all and user comments are welcome. Users are free to post their comments freely, and converse with each other - as long as these contributions are positive, constructive and respectful of others. We aim to keep this site a positive and welcoming place for all. Please note our terms of use and “house rules” outlined below. We support diversity, and diverse views and discussion are welcome. However any comments that may cause harm or are considered to be discriminatory will be removed. We expect that users will not post content that falls into the following categories and we reserve the right to remove any postings that are:

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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

23/02/2026

Staying physically active is one of the most effective ways to support heart health and overall wellbeing, particularly as we get older.

Regular physical activity helps reduce the risk of heart disease, supports healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and improves both physical and mental health.

As we age, regular exercise can help to:
• Strengthen the heart and improve circulation
• Reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke
• Improve energy levels and stamina
• Support balance, mobility and independence
• Reduce stress and improve mood
• Maintain a healthy weight and muscle strength

Exercise doesn’t need to be strenuous to be beneficial. Activities such as walking, cycling, swimming, gardening or strength exercises can all contribute to better heart health when done regularly.

The Heart Foundation recommends aiming for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on most days, tailored to your ability and health status.

If you have an existing heart condition, symptoms, or concerns about starting an exercise routine, it’s important to speak with your GP first.

To learn more about physical activity recommendations and how exercise supports heart health at every age, visit the Heart Foundation website: https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/healthy-living/physical-activity

19/02/2026

This week, we’re highlighting the importance of heart valves and how they help your heart work efficiently, particularly as we age.

The heart has four valves, each acting like a one-way door to keep blood flowing in the correct direction:
• Tricuspid valve
• Mitral valve
• Pulmonary valve
• Aortic valve

🫀 What can go wrong with heart valves?
Heart valve disease occurs when one or more valves do not open or close properly. While valve problems can occur at any age, they are more common as we get older, particularly in people aged 65 and over, due to natural wear and tear, thickening, or calcification of the valves. Valves may become:
• Narrowed (stenosis), restricting blood flow, or
• Leaky (regurgitation), allowing blood to flow backwards
Both can cause the heart to work harder than normal.

🫀 Possible signs and symptoms can include:
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Dizziness or fainting
• Palpitations
• Swelling of the ankles or feet
• Ongoing tiredness
Some people may have no symptoms at all. Often, the first sign is a heart murmur, detected during a routine check with a stethoscope.

🫀 What should you do if you’re concerned?
If you are experiencing symptoms or are aged 65 or over and concerned about your heart, speak with your GP. They are best placed to assess your symptoms and determine whether further investigation or specialist review is needed. Early diagnosis is important, as many heart valve conditions are treatable when identified early.

🫀 Learn more
If you’d like to learn more about heart valves, heart valve disease, and how it is diagnosed and managed, the Heart Foundation provides clear, patient-friendly information here: https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/your-heart/heart-valve-disease

15/02/2026

If you or someone close to you has been scheduled for a trans-oesophageal echocardiogram, often called a TOE, it can be helpful to read further about the procedure and familiarise yourself with what to expect on the day.

This post outlines what a TOE is, why it may be recommended, and provides an overview of how the procedure is performed.

A trans-oesophageal echocardiogram, or TOE, is a diagnostic procedure used to view and take images of the structures of the heart and aorta from the oesophagus (throat).

During the procedure, a flexible probe with a small telescope is gently passed through the mouth and guided down the throat, where it sits behind the heart.

An ultrasound scanner attached to the telescope provides clear, close-up images of the heart.

The procedure is used for a range of different purposes.

It is commonly performed to assess heart valve problems and can help determine whether a valve can be repaired or needs to be replaced.

It may also be used to help close holes between heart chambers or to guide the insertion of devices.

If a controlled electric shock is required to treat an abnormal heart rhythm (known as a cardioversion), a TOE is sometimes used beforehand to check for any blood clots in the heart chambers.

Your cardiologist will explain why a TOE has been recommended in your individual case.

The procedure usually takes around 30 minutes.

Patients at Sutherland Heart Clinic are admitted on the morning of their procedure and typically remain at the clinic for two to three hours afterwards before going home.

You can read our patient guide on this procedure here:
https://www.sutherlandheartclinic.com.au/transoesophageal-echo/

Located within Sutherland Hospital at Caringbah, Sutherland Heart Clinic is one of the leading interventional cardiology hospitals in Australia - performing more than 3,500 a year.

12/02/2026

Looking for a light, fresh, and heart-healthy meal perfect for the warmer weather? This Baked Salmon with Quinoa Salad from is quick to prepare and packed with flavour and nutrients! 🐟🥗

Baked salmon with quinoa salad (Serves 4) | Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 25 mins

Ingredients:
🥗 ½ cup (100g) white quinoa, rinsed, drained
🥗 2 cups (300g) frozen broad beans
🥗 4 x 100g skinless salmon fillets
🥗 2 teaspoons ground cumin
🥗 2 teaspoons ground coriander
🥗 1 teaspoon ground paprika
🥗 Olive oil spray
🥗 60g baby spinach leaves, shredded
🥗 60g chopped kale
🥗 2 spring onions, thinly sliced
🥗 3 medium tomatoes, coarsely chopped
🥗 ⅓ cup coarsely chopped mint leaves
🥗 1 tablespoon chopped unsalted roasted almonds
🥗 ¼ cup (70g) Greek-style yoghurt
🥗 2 teaspoons tahini
🥗 1 tablespoon lemon juice
🥗 1 garlic clove, crushed
This dish is an excellent source of omega-3 fats from the salmon and fibre from the quinoa and vegetables, making it a powerful choice for heart health.

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

Sutherland 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:

09/02/2026

Coronary heart disease is one of the most common heart conditions seen in Australia, and understanding the signs and how it’s diagnosed can help you recognise potential risks or concerns.

🫀 What is coronary heart disease?

Coronary heart disease (CHD) occurs when the coronary arteries become narrowed or clogged due to a build-up of plaque made of fat, cholesterol and other materials. Over time, this causes the arteries to stiffen and restrict blood flow to the heart muscle. When the heart is starved of oxygen, it can lead to angina or a heart attack. Many people may not realise they have CHD until symptoms occur, which is why early awareness is important.

🫀 How is coronary heart disease diagnosed?

Diagnosis may occur after symptoms such as angina or a heart attack, or during a heart health check with your GP. Your doctor will review your symptoms and family history, and conduct a physical examination. Tests may include blood tests, an electrocardiogram (ECG), a stress test, an echocardiogram or imaging such as a coronary angiogram, coronary CT angiogram, or other tests.

🫀 How is coronary heart disease treated?

CHD is a long-term condition that requires ongoing management. Treatment may involve restoring blood flow if symptoms occur due to acute coronary syndromes, followed by heart-healthy lifestyle changes, prescribed medicines and other procedures if recommended. Cardiac rehabilitation and digital support programs can also help you stay well and support long-term heart health.

🫀 If you're concerned about your heart

This information is general in nature and provided for educational purposes. If you have concerns about your heart or symptoms that may indicate coronary heart disease, please speak with your GP or heart health professional.

🫀 Learn more

You can learn more about coronary heart disease at the Heart Foundation: https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/your-heart/coronary-heart-disease

Sutherland Heart Clinic is one of Australia’s leading interventional cardiology hospitals, located within Sutherland Hospital at Caringbah. It performs more than 3,500 diagnostic and interventional cardiology procedures each year.

06/02/2026

Dr David Wong is a Procedural Cardiologist who conducts a range of diagnostic procedures at Sutherland Heart Clinic.

He has a special interest in cardiac imaging, echocardiography, CT coronary angiography and general cardiology.

In addition to his role at Sutherland Heart Clinic, he also works as a staff specialist at Sutherland Hospital and consults at other private hospitals in Sydney.

He is also a conjoint lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine at the University of NSW and a medical student examiner.

Dr Wong graduated from the University of NSW with a Bachelor of Medicine and a Bachelor of Surgery and completed his specialist training in cardiology at Prince of Wales Hospital in 2010. He then undertook a fellowship year in echocardiography and imaging.

You can read more about Dr Wong and our other doctors at Sutherland Heart Clinic on our website here: https://www.sutherlandheartclinic.com.au/all-doctors/

04/02/2026

February is Red Feb – Heart Research Awareness Month

Sutherland Heart Clinic is pleased to support and help promote Red Feb, an important heart research awareness and fundraising campaign led by Heart Research Australia.

Heart disease remains one of Australia’s leading causes of death, affecting individuals, families and communities across the country.

Red Feb shines a spotlight on the vital role of research in improving the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of heart disease.

This February, the message is simple:

🫀 Wear red.
🫀 Start a conversation.
🫀 Consider donating if you’re able.

Heart Research Australia’s Red Feb campaign also provides a valuable hub of information and resources to support greater understanding of heart health and heart disease prevention.

You can learn more about Red Feb, including how to get involved, here:
👉 https://www.redfeb.heartresearch.com.au/home

We’re also sharing a video from Heart Research Australia’s YouTube channel that explains the campaign and its impact in more detail.

Video credit

27/01/2026

If you’re new to Sutherland Heart Clinic, or unfamiliar with the work we do, we’d like to take a moment to re-introduce ourselves.

Sutherland Heart Clinic is a specialist interventional cardiology hospital located within the Sutherland Hospital campus at Caringbah.

We care for public and private patients from across Sydney and regional NSW.

We’re one of the leading interventional cardiology hospitals in Australia, performing more than 3,500 cardiac procedures each year.

Our team includes procedural and clinical cardiologists, visiting cardiothoracic and vascular surgeons, anaesthetists, radiographers, specialist nurses, and a wide range of support staff — all working together to provide coordinated, patient-centred care.

The clinic features two dedicated cardiac catheter laboratories equipped with advanced imaging and interventional technology, and a 10-bed recovery ward designed to support patients during their short stay with us.

Procedures performed here include diagnostic studies, angioplasty (with stent insertion), pacemaker procedures and a range of interventional treatments for heart rhythm and coronary conditions.

Being co-located within Sutherland Hospital provides patients with streamlined access to additional cardiac surgical services and support when required, ensuring continuity of care throughout their treatment.

Sutherland Heart Clinic operates as part of the South Eastern Sydney Local Health District and the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District.

If you ever have a concern about your heart, always discuss this promptly with your local GP who will be able to assess and refer to you the most appropriate care and support as needed.

You can learn more about Sutherland Heart Clinic on our website here: www.sutherlandheartclinic.com.au

23/01/2026

The summer break is a great time to slow down, reset, and enjoy some simple moments outdoors — and it can also be the perfect opportunity to move a little more.

With longer days and warmer weather, even small changes like adding a short walk, exploring a local trail, or doing a few extra laps around the block can help lift your energy and support your heart health.

It doesn’t need to be intense or structured — just steady, gentle movement at a pace that feels right for you.

Regular physical activity can help boost heart health, reduce stress, and improve overall wellbeing.

And the best part? Every step counts. You might be surprised how quickly a few minutes of movement here and there can add up.

If you’d like to plan a more structured activity routine for the year ahead, the Heart Foundation has a dedicated section with simple, practical guides to help you get started. You can explore their resources here: https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/healthy-living/physical-activity/physical-activity-getting-started

Wishing you a heart-healthy start to the new year — and a summer filled with fresh air, sunshine, and gentle activity.

19/01/2026

🌟 New to Sutherland Heart Clinic? Welcome — we’re glad you’re here.

If you’re just getting to know us, we appreciate the opportunity to introduce who we are and the team behind the care.

Sutherland Heart Clinic is a private interventional cardiology hospital located within Sutherland Hospital at Caringbah, supporting patients from across Southern Sydney and regional NSW.

Every year, more than 3,500 cardiac procedures are performed here — from diagnostic tests to life-saving interventional procedures.

Our team includes procedural and clinical cardiologists, visiting cardiothoracic and vascular surgeons, anaesthetists, radiographers, specialist nurses, and dedicated support staff, all working together to provide coordinated, patient-centred care.

With two cardiac catheter laboratories and a 10-bed recovery ward, we offer a modern and well-equipped environment for procedures such as coronary angiography and angioplasty (stent insertion), pacemaker and defibrillator implantation, cardioversion, electrophysiology studies, radiofrequency ablation, and trans-oesophageal echocardiography (TOE).

Being co-located within Sutherland Hospital also means patients have seamless access to additional cardiac surgical services if needed.

If you ever have concerns about your heart, the best first step is always to speak with your GP. They can assess your symptoms and, if appropriate, provide a referral to the right cardiology service based on your individual needs.

For now, we simply invite you to meet the faces of our procedural cardiology team — a group of highly experienced specialists dedicated to supporting the heart health of our community.

📍 Sutherland Heart Clinic, co-located at Sutherland Hospital, Caringbah
🔗 Learn more: https://www.sutherlandheartclinic.com.au/

15/01/2026

Have you heard of a heart procedure called a radiofrequency ablation?

It’s a commonly performed treatment for certain heart rhythm conditions.

Conducted in a cardiac catheter lab, radiofrequency ablation uses carefully controlled electrical energy to treat tiny areas of heart tissue that may be triggering abnormal electrical signals.

People may be referred for this procedure when their heart is beating too fast or irregularly due to these abnormal impulses.

The procedure can be done under either local or general anaesthetic, and your doctor will discuss which option is most suitable for you.

During the procedure, a thin flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into a vein — often in the groin — and gently guided up to the heart. X-ray imaging is used throughout to help the doctor position the catheter safely and precisely.

Once in place, the heart’s electrical activity is recorded from inside the heart to pinpoint the exact areas causing the rhythm disturbance.

The radiofrequency ablation catheter is then used to apply targeted energy to those areas. This creates a small scar that helps prevent the abnormal rhythm from recurring.

The procedure usually takes between two and four hours, depending on the type of arrhythmia being treated.

At Sutherland Heart Clinic, most patients come in on the morning of their procedure and stay overnight for monitoring, but your doctor will advise the best plan for your individual situation.

You can learn more about the procedure here: https://www.sutherlandheartclinic.com.au/radiofrequency-ablation-rfa/

Sutherland Heart Clinic is one of the leading interventional cardiology hospitals in Australia, conducting about 3,500 interventional cardiology procedures a year. It is located at Sutherland Hospital at Caringbah.

11/01/2026

Have you heard of a condition called atrial fibrillation?

It’s a common heart rhythm disorder that can result in a range of symptoms - for example, feeling your heart “flutter” or “racing”or feeling breathless or light-headed.

These symptoms might prompt you to see a doctor for about your heart for the first time. Knowing more about atrial fibrillation will enable you to navigate the process of diagnosis and management with greater knowledge and confidence.

🫀 What is atrial fibrillation?

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a type of arrhythmia in which the heart beats fast and irregularly due to abnormal electrical activity in the top chambers of the heart. Instead of contracting normally, the atria twitch rapidly and out of rhythm with the lower chambers. This reduces the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively and increases the chance of a blood clot forming and travelling to the brain, where it can cause a stroke. Symptoms vary and may include breathlessness, dizziness, palpitations, tiredness, chest discomfort or difficulty exercising, although some people experience no symptoms at all.

🫀 How is atrial fibrillation diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually begins with a review of your symptoms and medical history, along with a physical examination. Your doctor may arrange blood tests, a chest X-ray, an electrocardiogram (ECG), an echocardiogram or heart rhythm monitoring such as a Holter monitor, event recorder or implantable loop recorder. Stress testing may also be recommended to assess how your heart responds during exercise.

🫀 How is atrial fibrillation treated?

Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and reducing the risk of stroke. Management may include medications to slow the heart rate, restore normal rhythm or reduce clotting risk. Other treatment options include electrical or pharmacological cardioversion, catheter ablation or a pacemaker. Lifestyle measures—such as reducing alcohol intake, being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight and managing conditions like high blood pressure or sleep apnoea—also play an important role.

🫀 If you're concerned about your heart

This information is general in nature and provided for educational purposes. If you have concerns about your heart or symptoms that may indicate atrial fibrillation, please speak with your GP or heart health professional.

🫀 Learn more

You can learn more about atrial fibrillation at the Heart Foundation: https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/your-heart/atrial-fibrillation

Sutherland Heart Clinic is one of Australia’s leading interventional cardiology hospitals, located within Sutherland Hospital at Caringbah. It performs more than 3,500 diagnostic and interventional cardiology procedures each year.

Address

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

Website

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

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