Coronary Angioplasty, also known as Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), is a medical procedure used to treat narrowed or blocked coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart. This condition, often caused by atherosclerosis (buildup of fatty deposits), can restrict blood flow, leading to chest pain (angina), heart attacks, or other severe cardiovascular events.
During coronary angioplasty, a catheter with a small balloon at its tip is inserted into the blocked artery. Once positioned, the balloon is inflated to open the artery, restoring blood flow. In some cases, a stent (a small metal mesh tube) is placed to keep the artery open long-term. This procedure is minimally invasive, meaning it doesn't require large incisions, and can often be done under local anesthesia.
Angioplasty plays a crucial role in preventing serious heart complications. It can relieve symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath, improving the patient's quality of life. Additionally, angioplasty helps reduce the risk of heart attacks, offering patients a better chance of survival and a faster recovery compared to more invasive surgical options like coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).
Before the procedure, patients undergo diagnostic tests like an angiogram, which involves injecting a contrast dye into the coronary arteries to visualize blockages. The angioplasty itself is typically performed in a catheterization lab, where patients are monitored closely.
In conclusion, coronary angioplasty is an essential treatment option for patients with coronary artery disease, offering significant relief from symptoms and improving overall heart health.
Angiography