Angioplasty and Stenting
What is Angioplasty?
Angioplasty is a procedure to open narrowed or blocked coronary arteries using a balloon catheter, often followed by placing a stent to keep the artery open.
Why is Angioplasty Done?
- Chest pain (angina) not relieved by medication
- Heart attack treatment
- Blocked arteries detected during angiography
Procedure Overview
- Local anesthesia
- Catheter inserted through groin or wrist artery
- Balloon inflated to widen artery
- Stent placed to maintain blood flow
Recovery
- Hospital stay 1-2 days
- Resume normal activities in a week
- Blood thinners prescribed to prevent clotting
Risks
- Bleeding at catheter site
- Blood vessel damage
- Rare risk of heart attack during procedure
Conclusion
Angioplasty saves lives and relieves chest pain. Heritage Hospital’s interventional cardiologists are experts in advanced stent technologies for safe outcomes.