Dr. Gnalini Sathananthan – Cardiologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Gnalini Sathananthan, a respected Cardiologist, focuses on evidence-based cardiology practice and personalized patient treatment plans. Practicing in Vancouver, BC, she serves patients from the surrounding region. Her practice adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Sathananthan's primary focus is on providing comprehensive adult cardiology care, ensuring each patient receives tailored assessments and interventions.

Dr. Gnalini Sathananthan graduated with a MB BS from the University of New South Wales in 2007, located in the United Kingdom. She completed extensive postgraduate training in cardiology, including certifications recognized by the College Registration Committee and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her training encompasses a broad spectrum of cardiovascular subspecialties, equipping her with the expertise to manage complex heart conditions.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes clear, educational communication and compassionate patient care. Dr. Sathananthan is committed to staying current with the latest advancements in cardiology to provide the highest quality care in Vancouver. She speaks English fluently, ensuring effective communication with her diverse patient population and fostering a supportive environment for understanding health concerns and treatment options.

Dr. Sathananthan provides expert care for adults with a wide range of cardiovascular conditions, including:

Cardiovascular Prevention & Risk Management

• Complex Hypertension Management: Specialist care for difficult-to-control high blood pressure or hypertension with associated complications.
• Primary & Secondary Cardiovascular Prevention: Developing comprehensive strategies (lifestyle and medical) to prevent a first heart event or subsequent events in high-risk individuals.
• Cardiovascular Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation of individual risk factors to estimate the likelihood of future heart attack or stroke.

Valvular Heart Disease

• Tricuspid & Pulmonary Valve Conditions: Evaluation and management of less common conditions affecting the right-sided heart valves.
• Mitral Valve Disease (Stenosis & Regurgitation/Prolapse): Assessment of mitral valve problems, monitoring progression, and managing related complications like arrhythmias or heart failure.
• Post-Valve Surgery / Intervention Follow-Up: Ongoing care and monitoring for patients after surgical or transcatheter heart valve repair or replacement.

Other Cardiovascular Conditions

• Pericardial Diseases (e.g., Pericarditis): Diagnosis and management of inflammation or fluid accumulation affecting the sac surrounding the heart.
• Cardio-Oncology Issues: Monitoring and managing potential heart complications related to cancer treatments.
• Aortic Diseases (e.g., Aneurysm Monitoring): Medical management and monitoring of conditions affecting the aorta, such as aneurysms (in collaboration with vascular specialists).

Cardiologists manage a broad spectrum of heart and vascular conditions. This list showcases common areas. Consultation with Dr. Sathananthan is typically initiated via referral from your family doctor or another specialist to address your specific cardiovascular concerns.

• Cardiovascular Risk Factor Assessment & Modification: Comprehensive evaluation of individual risk factors (smoking, diet, exercise, family history, etc.) and developing personalized prevention strategies.
• Management of Cardiovascular Medications: Expert prescribing, titration, and monitoring of medications used to treat various heart conditions and risk factors.
• Echocardiogram (Transthoracic - TTE) Interpretation: Analyzing standard ultrasound images of the heart to evaluate heart muscle function, valve structure and function, and chamber sizes.
• Ambulatory ECG (Holter & Event Monitor) Interpretation: Analyzing recordings from portable heart monitors worn for 24 hours up to several weeks to diagnose intermittent arrhythmias or correlate symptoms with heart rhythm.
• Lipid Management (Cholesterol Treatment): Specialized management of high cholesterol and other lipid disorders using lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.

Note: This list highlights key areas of cardiovascular care provided by Dr. Sathananthan. The specific services required will depend on your individual diagnosis and referral. Please discuss specific service needs with your referring physician.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

Dr. Sathananthan primarily practices at medical facilities located in the Yaletown and Downtown South neighborhoods of Vancouver, BC. These locations are conveniently situated near the Museum of Vancouver and H.R. MacMillan Space Centre at Vanier Park. Patients can access the practice easily via TransLink’s SkyTrain lines (Expo, Millennium, Canada Lines), buses, SeaBus, and West Coast Express at the Waterfront station. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

Are cardiology consultations and tests ordered by Dr. Sathananthan covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?

Yes, consultations with specialists like Dr. Sathananthan are typically covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when you have a valid health card and a required referral. Most medically necessary diagnostic tests ordered by a cardiologist (like ECGs, standard echocardiograms, stress tests) are also usually covered. Some advanced tests or specific procedures might have different coverage rules or require pre-approval. It's always best to confirm specific coverage with Medical Services Plan (MSP) or the testing facility.

Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Sathananthan?

Yes, as a specialist in Cardiology, a referral from your family doctor or another referring physician is required to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sathananthan. This ensures the consultation is appropriate for your medical needs and facilitates coordination of your care. Please ask your doctor to send a referral request.

What are some common heart tests Dr. Gnalini Sathananthan might order?

Common tests include: Electrocardiogram (ECG), Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound), Stress Test (treadmill or chemical), Holter monitoring (24hr+ ECG), and blood tests (e.g., cholesterol, kidney function). Depending on your situation, she might also consider Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring, Cardiac CT, MRI, or referral for Cardiac Catheterization if needed. The reason for each test will be explained.

1081 Burrard St
Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6

Phone: (604) 806-9090

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Sathananthan is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Patients are typically seen by referral from their primary care physician.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/361106/Sathananthan%2CGnalini