What is Coronary Angioplasty?

Coronary Angioplasty, also known as Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), is a procedure aimed at opening narrowed or blocked coronary arteries (the arteries supplying blood to the heart). By improving blood flow in these arteries, angioplasty helps relieve symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath.

Angioplasty is frequently performed along with stent placement. A stent is a small, wire-mesh tube that acts as a scaffold to keep the artery open. Some stents are drug-eluting, releasing medication to prevent the artery from narrowing again, while others are bare metal stents (BMS) without any medication coating.

Why is it performed?

Coronary angioplasty is used to treat atherosclerosis, which is the gradual buildup of plaque inside the coronary arteries. Your doctor may recommend angioplasty if:

• Lifestyle changes and medications are not sufficient to manage your heart condition.
• You experience a heart attack and opening the blocked artery quickly can minimize damage.
• Chest pain (angina) is worsening.

What happens during the procedure?

PCI is conducted in a Cath Lab. A small incision is made in the leg, arm, or wrist. Using live X-ray imaging, a catheter is guided to the blocked artery. A contrast dye is injected to highlight the blockage. A balloon attached to a stent is then inflated at the narrowed area, widening the artery. Once the blockage is relieved, the stent remains in place to keep the artery open, restoring proper blood flow. Most stents used are drug-eluting to prevent future plaque buildup. Afterward, the balloon is deflated, and the catheter is removed.

How long does the procedure take?

The duration depends on the number of blockages and the patient’s overall health. Your doctor will provide details prior to the procedure.

What happens after the procedure?

After angioplasty, you will be monitored in an Intensive Care Unit. Hospitalization typically lasts 2–3 days. Your discharge and follow-up visits will be planned based on your recovery and heart health progress.

FAQs

What is Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)?
CAD occurs when coronary arteries narrow or harden due to plaque buildup. This restricts blood flow to the heart, leading to heart dysfunction. Common symptoms include:

• Chest pain, or pain radiating to the arms, shoulder, neck, jaw, or back.
• Shortness of breath.
• Unusual fatigue or tiredness.

What are the benefits of PCI?

• Restores blood flow without open-heart surgery.
• Reduces angina (chest pain).
• Provides immediate symptom relief, such as improved breathing.
• Lowers risk of stroke.

Am I a suitable candidate for PCI?
Angioplasty may not be suitable for patients with:

• Severe narrowing of the main artery supplying the left side of the heart.
• Weak heart muscles.
• Multiple diseased coronary arteries.

The decision between angioplasty and coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) depends on the extent of arterial blockages, disease severity, and overall health. CABG involves bypassing blocked arteries using blood vessels from other parts of the body.

Post-Angioplasty Care at Home

• Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out contrast dye.
• Monitor the incision site for signs of infection (redness, swelling, or discharge) and inform your doctor if any occur.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle: quit smoking, eat a balanced diet, and exercise moderately.
• Most patients can resume normal activities within a week but should avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting initially.
• Attend follow-up appointments with your cardiologist to monitor recovery.

For consultation with a cardiologist, you can schedule an appointment at VishwaRaj Hospital.