Angioplasty, also called Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), is a minimally invasive procedure to restore blood flow to your heart by opening blocked or narrowed coronary arteries. It is a lifesaving treatment for conditions like coronary artery disease and heart attacks.
During angioplasty, a tiny balloon is inflated inside the blocked artery to widen it, often followed by placing a small metal tube called a stent to keep the artery open and maintain proper blood flow.
Why is Angioplasty Important?
Angioplasty is a revolutionary procedure that helps improve heart function and reduce the risk of life-threatening complications. It is performed to:
- Relieve chest pain (angina) caused by restricted blood flow.
- Treat the cause of a heart attack by quickly opening blocked arteries.
- Improve blood flow in patients with coronary artery disease.
- Prevent future heart attacks and improve overall heart health.
When Should You Consider Angioplasty?
Your doctor may recommend angioplasty if:
- You have a severe blockage or narrowing in your coronary arteries.
- Medications and lifestyle changes aren’t enough to relieve your symptoms.
- You are experiencing symptoms of a heart attack, such as intense chest pain, sweating, and shortness of breath.
What Happens During Angioplasty?
The procedure typically takes about 1–2 hours and is performed in a specialized cardiac catheterization lab. Here’s what you can expect:
- Preparation: You’ll be given local anesthesia to numb the area where the catheter will be inserted (usually the wrist or groin).
- Procedure:
- A thin, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted into a blood vessel and guided to the blocked artery.
- A small balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated to push the plaque against the artery walls, restoring blood flow.
- A stent may be placed to keep the artery open permanently.
- Recovery: After the procedure, you’ll rest for a few hours while your medical team monitors you for any complications. Most patients return to normal activities within a few days.
Is Angioplasty Safe?
Angioplasty is a safe and effective procedure, especially when performed by experienced interventional cardiologists. While rare, risks include bleeding, infection, or blood clots. At Kurnool Cardiac Center, your safety is our top priority, and our team ensures that every step is handled with precision and care.
Why Choose Us for Angioplasty?
At Kurnool Cardiac Center, our expert interventional cardiologist Dr. Nagendra Prasad Thota specializes in performing angioplasty with the latest techniques and equipment. We are committed to providing high-quality care, ensuring successful outcomes and faster recovery for our patients.
Take the next step toward a healthy heart. Schedule a consultation today to learn how angioplasty can transform your life!
