Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to restore blood flow in arteries that have become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup, a condition often associated with heart disease. For those diagnosed with coronary artery disease, angioplasty can be a lifesaving treatment. In this guide, we will explain what happens during angioplasty and why it is an important procedure for heart health.
What Is Angioplasty?
Angioplasty, also known as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), is performed to open up narrowed or blocked arteries, ensuring that blood flows freely to the heart. This treatment is commonly recommended for patients who have chest pain (angina) or who are at risk of a heart attack.
This procedure is widely available in many cardiac centers. If you’re considering angioplasty treatment in Pune, consulting with the best cardiologist in Pune will help you understand if it’s the right treatment option for you.
Step-by-Step Process of Angioplasty
- Preparation for the Procedure Before angioplasty begins, the patient is given a mild sedative to help relax, though they remain awake during the procedure. A local anesthetic is administered to numb the site, usually in the groin, wrist, or arm, where the catheter will be inserted. The cardiologist will then insert a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into the artery.
- Inserting the Catheter The cardiologist carefully guides the catheter through the blood vessels to the location of the blockage in the heart’s arteries. During this time, imaging technology such as X-rays helps the doctor view the arteries and ensure the catheter reaches the correct spot.
- Inflating the Balloon Once the catheter is in place, a small balloon attached to the catheter is inflated at the site of the blockage. The pressure from the balloon pushes the plaque against the walls of the artery, widening it and restoring blood flow. This part of the procedure usually lasts only a few minutes but is crucial in relieving symptoms like chest pain and preventing further complications.
- Placing the Stent In many cases, a stent—a small wire mesh tube—is placed in the artery to keep it open long-term. The stent is expanded by the balloon and remains in the artery after the balloon is deflated and removed. Over time, the stent becomes a part of the artery wall, providing lasting support to maintain adequate blood flow.
- Monitoring and Recovery After the balloon is deflated and the catheter is removed, the patient is taken to a recovery area for observation. Most patients can go home the same day or the day after the procedure, depending on their overall health and how the procedure went.
Why Angioplasty?
For those dealing with blocked arteries, angioplasty offers significant benefits, including:
- Relief from chest pain: Angina is a common symptom of narrowed arteries, and angioplasty can provide immediate relief.
- Prevention of heart attacks: By restoring blood flow, angioplasty can reduce the risk of a heart attack.
- Quicker recovery: Compared to open-heart surgery, angioplasty is minimally invasive, allowing patients to return to normal activities sooner.
After the Procedure: What to Expect
Most patients experience improved blood flow and reduced symptoms after angioplasty. However, lifestyle changes such as eating a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking are essential for long-term success.
Patients should also continue follow-up appointments with their cardiologist in Pune to monitor their heart health. Medications may be prescribed to prevent blood clots, lower cholesterol, or control blood pressure.
Conclusion
Angioplasty is a vital procedure that can save lives by restoring proper blood flow to the heart. If you or a loved one is experiencing heart disease symptoms, consulting with the best cardiologist in Pune will help you explore the best treatment options, including angioplasty. This minimally invasive procedure is often a critical step in preventing more severe heart issues, improving quality of life, and ensuring long-term heart health.
