Dr. Shahnawaz Amirali Virani – Cardiologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Shahnawaz Amirali Virani is a dedicated Cardiologist specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of heart and blood vessel diseases. Practicing in Vancouver, BC, he serves patients from the surrounding region. His practice adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Virani's focus includes comprehensive cardiovascular care, with particular interest in managing complex heart conditions, preventive cardiology, and interventional procedures as appropriate for his patients. He primarily provides care for adult patients, emphasizing personalized treatment plans tailored to individual risk factors and health goals.

Dr. Virani graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of British Columbia in 1999 and has completed extensive post-graduate training in Cardiology, including fellowships and certifications recognized by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His training encompassed advanced diagnostics, interventional techniques, and comprehensive management of cardiovascular diseases, ensuring a high standard of clinical expertise and evidence-based practice.

With a professional and clinical approach, Dr. Virani is committed to delivering exceptional patient care in Vancouver. He communicates fluently in English and is dedicated to fostering a collaborative and informed environment for his patients, aiming to improve cardiovascular health outcomes through preventative strategies, patient education, and state-of-the-art treatment modalities.

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

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) & Ischemic Heart Disease

• Stable Angina Pectoris: Managing chest discomfort or pressure caused by narrowed heart arteries, typically occurring during exertion or stress.
• Evaluation for Suspected CAD: Diagnostic workup for patients with symptoms or risk factors suggesting potential blockages in the heart arteries.
• Management after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery: Long-term medical care, risk factor control, and lifestyle guidance following heart bypass surgery.

Valvular Heart Disease

• Post-Valve Surgery / Intervention Follow-Up: Ongoing care and monitoring for patients after surgical or transcatheter heart valve repair or replacement.
• Aortic Valve Disease (Stenosis & Regurgitation): Monitoring valve function, managing symptoms, and determining the appropriate timing for valve intervention (repair or replacement).
• Infective Endocarditis Follow-Up: Managing cardiac health after treatment for infection of the heart valves or lining.

Cardiovascular Prevention & Risk Management

• 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.
• Advanced Dyslipidemia (Cholesterol) Management: Treatment of complex or severe cholesterol disorders, especially in patients with high cardiovascular risk or medication intolerance.

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

• Consultation for Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea): Investigating the potential cardiac causes of breathlessness.
• Consultation for Chest Pain Evaluation: Specialist assessment to determine the cause of chest pain, differentiating between cardiac and non-cardiac origins.
• Anticoagulation Management (e.g., for AFib, Clots): Managing blood-thinning medications to prevent stroke or blood clots, including monitoring and dose adjustments.
• Lipid Management (Cholesterol Treatment): Specialized management of high cholesterol and other lipid disorders using lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.
• Management of Cardiovascular Medications: Expert prescribing, titration, and monitoring of medications used to treat various heart conditions and risk factors.

Note: This list highlights key areas of cardiovascular care provided by Dr. Virani. 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. Virani's practice is primarily based at medical facilities in the Yaletown and Downtown South neighborhoods of Vancouver, BC. The location is conveniently close to Harbour Centre and Vancouver Lookout, offering a central and accessible setting for patients. Patients can reach the clinic via TransLink services, including the SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as by bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront Station). The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

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

Yes, consultations with specialists like Dr. Virani 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. Virani?

Yes, as a specialist in Cardiology, a referral from your family doctor or another referring physician is required to schedule an appointment with Dr. Virani. 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 is an Interventional Cardiologist?

An Interventional Cardiologist is a Cardiologist with additional specialized training in performing catheter-based procedures like angioplasty and stenting to treat blocked coronary arteries. While Dr. Virani provides expert medical management, he may refer patients to an interventional colleague if these procedures are indicated. As an Interventional Cardiologist, Dr. Virani performs procedures like angioplasty and stenting in addition to providing cardiology consultations.

What are some common heart tests Dr. Virani 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, he 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.

Can my spouse or family member come with me?

Yes, you are welcome to bring someone with you for support or to help listen and ask questions during your appointment with Dr. Virani. Having another person present can often be very helpful, especially during complex discussions.

How should I prepare for a stress test?

Specific instructions will be provided when your test is booked. Generally, you may be asked to avoid caffeine for several hours beforehand, wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing, and potentially hold certain heart medications (like beta-blockers) on the day of the test. Always confirm instructions with the testing facility or Dr. Virani's office.

Room 444, 1081 Burrard Street, St. Paul's Hospital
Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6

Phone: (604) 875-5092 | Fax: (604) 875-5761

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Virani 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/324402/Virani%2CShahnawaz