Angioplasty, stenting, and atherectomy are minimally invasive, nonsurgical treatments for narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. Angioplasty and stent placement can alleviate the blockage of an artery and persistent chest pain when medications aren’t working. These procedures are also used in emergency situations, such as when someone is having a heart attack. Angioplasty involves inserting a catheter into the artery through a small puncture.
Angioplasty and stent placement can be lifesaving procedures that can open blocked arteries and improve heart health.
Percutaneous of transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) is a minimally invasive procedure that opens blocked coronary arteries to improve blood flow to the heart. Angioplasty and the placement of a drug-eluting or bare-metal stent is a type of coronary intervention that takes place inside the arteries on top of the heart.
Balloon angioplasty is performed by inserting a catheter with a tiny balloon into the blocked artery. When in position, the balloon is inflated to widen the opening in the artery. A cardiac stent is often placed during or immediately after angioplasty to help keep the coronary artery open. Over time, a drug-eluting stent releases medicine that prevents the buildup of plaque inside the stent.
Angioplasty recovery is generally about two weeks, depending on your condition. Patients must follow their medication schedule in order to prevent a reoccurring heart problem.
Angioplasty and stenting may be helpful for people with severely blocked arteries or chronic total occlusions. Your doctor may recommend angioplasty as a treatment option if:
During this nonsurgical procedure, your physician:
When traditional an
