What is Coronary angioplasty?
Coronary angioplasty is a medical procedure designed to alleviate blockages or narrowing in the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart.
During the angioplasty procedure, a balloon expands a narrowed or obstructed artery. This technique involves inflating the balloon to widen the highway and restore proper blood flow. However, contemporary angioplasty procedures commonly include placing a small wire mesh tube called a stent within the artery. The stent is a supportive structure that remains permanently to facilitate improved blood circulation. By combining the inflation of the balloon and the insertion of a stent, coronary angioplasty effectively widens and reinforces the affected artery, allowing for enhanced blood flow to the heart.
When a coronary angioplasty is needed?
Like other organs, the heart relies on a continuous blood supply for proper functioning. The coronary arteries facilitate this vital blood supply to the core.
However, in specific individuals, these arteries can undergo a process called atherosclerosis, where they become narrowed and hardened. This condition, known as coronary heart disease, can restrict blood flow to the heart.
When blood flow to the heart is compromised, it can lead to chest pain, referred to as angina. Angina is typically triggered by physical exertion or stress.
While angina can often be managed with medication, severe cases that prove ineffective may require a coronary angioplasty. This procedure aims to restore adequate blood supply to the heart. Moreover, coronary angioplasties are used frequently as an emergency treatment following a heart attack, seeking to promptly re-establish blood flow to the affected areas of the heart.
What are the benefits of Coronary Angioplasty?
Following an angioplasty, there is typically an improvement in blood flow through the coronary arteries for most individuals. Many people experience a significant alleviation of symptoms and can engage in challenging activities before the procedure.
For individuals who have suffered a heart attack, an angioplasty can significantly enhance the chances of survival compared to clot-busting medication (thrombolysis). Additionally, the procedure can lower the likelihood of future heart attacks occurring.
How is Coronary Angioplasty performed?
Before commencing angioplasty, a healthcare professional at Apex Hospitals will sanitize and numb the entry site where the catheter is inserted, typically in the groin area, although sometimes the wrist is used. Following this, the doctor at Apex Hospitals inserts the catheter into the artery and skilfully directs it toward the coronary artery while monitoring its progress through real-time X-ray imaging.
Once the catheter is positioned correctly, the doctor administers a contrast dye through the artery, aiding in the identification of blockages within the vicinity of the heart. Once the blockages are located, the doctor introduces a second catheter and a guidewire, typically equipped with a balloon at the tip. With the second catheter in place, the doctor inflates the balloon, displacing the plaque buildup and widening the artery. In some cases, a stent may be inserted to maintain the open position of the artery. The duration of an angioplasty procedure can vary, ranging from 30 minutes to a few hours. Depending on the specific circumstances, it may be necessary for the individual to spend a night in the hospital for observation and recovery.
When it comes to your health, you deserve nothing but the best. At Apex Hospitals, our specialists will provide personalized and comprehensive care throughout your angioplasty procedure.
Recovery
Upon completion of angioplasty, the cardiologist removes the catheters and applies appropriate bandages. It is expected to experience soreness, bruising, and occasionally mild bleeding around the entry site of the catheters.
Typically, a period of recovery in the hospital follows, ranging from a few hours to an overnight stay, before the individual is discharged to go home. It is important to note that driving should be avoided as sedative medications may still be in the system. Also, lifting restrictions may be imposed approximately a week after the procedure. Most individuals can anticipate returning to work within a week, although the treating physician will provide specific guidance regarding activity levels and timing.
The follow-up visit following angioplasty is crucial to the overall treatment process. During this visit, the doctor at Apex Hospitals will assess the individual's recovery progress, make any necessary medication adjustments, and develop a comprehensive long-term plan for managing their cardiovascular health.
Regain Your Heart's Health at Apex Hospitals.
Don't let blocked or narrowed coronary arteries keep you from living a healthy life. Trust the experts at Apex Hospitals to perform angioplasty and restore proper blood flow to your heart. Experience the highest level of care and get back to what matters most - living without limitations.
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