Coronary Angioplasty
How Coronary Angioplasty Can Help Open Up Clogged Arteries?
What Is Coronary Angioplasty Procedure?
Coronary angioplasty is a procedure used to treat narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. The word "angioplasty" means "to open up a clogged artery." Coronary angioplasty is also known as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). During the coronary angioplasty procedure, a long, thin tube called a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel in the arm or leg and threaded through the blood vessels to finally reach the heart. Once the catheter is in place, a small balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated. This opens up the blocked artery and improves blood flow to the heart. In some cases, a small metal coil called a stent is also placed in the artery to help keep it open. Coronary angioplasty is usually done in a hospital cardiac catheterization laboratory or in an operating room. The procedure usually takes about an hour. You will likely stay in the hospital for one to two days after the procedure.
Why Is It Performed?
Coronary angioplasty is usually done when there is a blockage in one or more coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart. The blockage is usually caused by plaque formation inside the arteries. Plaque is generally made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. This is an abnormal heart condition also known as atherosclerosis. Over time, plaque can harden or rupture. This can cause a heart attack or sudden death. Coronary angioplasty can improve blood flow to the heart and relieve chest pain. The procedure can also be done to improve blood flow to the heart in people who are having a heart attack. Coronary angioplasty is a safe and effective procedure. But, like all medical procedures, there are risks associated with coronary angioplasty. The most common risks associated with coronary angioplasty are:
Chest pain
Heart Attack
Stroke
Blood clots
Damage to the artery or re-narrowing
Death
What To Expect After A Successful Coronary Angioplasty?
After successful coronary angioplasty, it is normal to feel some relief from your symptoms. This is because the procedure has helped to improve blood flow to your heart. You may also feel a sense of tightness or pressure in your chest. This is caused by the balloon that was used during the procedure and is completely normal. You will be closely monitored in the hospital for the first 24 hours after the procedure. During this time, you may experience some minor discomfort and bruise for which you may be given pain meds. It is important to keep the area where the catheter was inserted clean and dry. You will be asked to return to the hospital for a follow-up appointment within a few weeks. At this appointment, your doctor will check to see how well the angioplasty has worked and discuss any lifestyle changes that you need to make.
How To Keep Yourself Heart Healthy After The Angioplasty & Stent Placement?
For any new symptoms, you should call your cardiologist or treating physician immediately. Also one should focus on the following to ensure a healthy heart:
Complete abstinence from smoking
Continue working on reducing cholesterol levels
Consume a diet low in saturated fats
Routine exercise to ensure maintaining healthy weight
Take medications as prescribed
Dr. Arun – A Well Known Cardiologist in India Who Specializes in Doing Coronary Angioplasties to Perfection!
Dr. Arun is a true genius when it comes to performing a coronary angioplasty to perfection. He has treated thousands of patients successfully and holds a very phenomenal and proven track record of achieving the highest reported success rates with such a critical cardiac procedure. Patients do feel absolutely safe because he holds his safest hands into action only to ensure a healthy beating heart for you. Contact him now to ask your queries or book an appointment with him.
