At Gupta Heart and Medical Centre, we understand the importance of providing comprehensive information about medical procedures to our patients. In this blog, we delve into the world of angioplasty – a common procedure used to treat narrowed or blocked arteries. We’ll explore the different types of angioplasty, the procedure itself, and what to expect during recovery.

What is Angioplasty?

Angioplasty, also known as percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA), is a minimally invasive procedure used to widen narrowed or blocked arteries. It helps improve blood flow to the heart, brain, kidneys, or legs, depending on the location of the blockage.

Types of Angioplasty:

1. Balloon Angioplasty: This is the most common type of angioplasty. A thin catheter with a deflated balloon at its tip is inserted into the blocked artery during the procedure. Once in place, the balloon is inflated to compress the plaque against the artery walls, widening the artery and restoring blood flow.
2. Drug-Coated Balloon Angioplasty: In this variation of balloon angioplasty, the balloon is coated with medication (such as a drug-eluting stent) to help prevent the artery from narrowing again after the procedure. This can reduce the risk of restenosis, or re-blocking of the artery.
3. Stent Placement: Sometimes, a small metal mesh tube called a stent is inserted into the artery during angioplasty. The stent acts as a scaffold to keep the artery open and prevent it from collapsing after the balloon is deflated and removed.
4. Atherectomy: This procedure involves using a special catheter with a rotating shaver or laser at its tip to remove plaque from the artery walls. It is often used when the plaque is too hard or extensive to be compressed by a balloon alone.

The Angioplasty Procedure:

Before the procedure, patients are usually given a sedative to help them relax. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area where the catheter will be inserted, typically in the groin or wrist.

1. Insertion of the Catheter: A small incision is made, and a thin, flexible catheter is guided through the blood vessels to the site of the blockage.
2. Angiography: Contrast dye is injected through the catheter, allowing the physician to visualize the blocked artery using X-ray imaging.
3. Balloon Inflation (if applicable): If balloon angioplasty is being performed, the balloon is inflated to widen the artery. In some cases, a stent may also be inserted and deployed during this step.
4. Monitoring and Recovery: After the procedure, patients are monitored for a few hours to ensure there are no complications. Most patients can go home the same day or after a short observation period.

Recovery and Aftercare:

• Patients may experience some soreness or bruising at the catheter insertion site, which typically resolves within a few days.
• It’s important to follow the physician’s instructions regarding medication, physical activity, and diet to promote healing and prevent complications.
• Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the patient’s progress and assess the effectiveness of the procedure.

Conclusion:

Angioplasty is a safe and effective procedure for treating narrowed or blocked arteries, helping to restore blood flow and improve overall cardiovascular health. At Gupta Heart and Medical Centre, our team of experienced cardiologists in Gorakhpur is dedicated to providing personalized care and support throughout the angioplasty process. If you have any questions or concerns about angioplasty or any other cardiac procedure, please contact us for guidance and assistance. Your heart health is our priority.