Angioplasty

Angioplasty is a medical procedure used to open up blocked or narrowed blood vessels, particularly in the heart. It’s commonly performed on patients with coronary artery disease, where plaque builds up in the arteries, restricting blood flow. This procedure can help relieve symptoms like chest pain and reduce the risk of heart attacks.

During angioplasty, a tiny tube known as a catheter is placed into a blood artery, typically in the arm or groin. A small balloon at the tip of the catheter is then inflated at the site of the blockage. This balloon compresses the plaque against the artery walls, widening the vessel and restoring blood flow. In many cases, a small mesh tube called a stent is also placed to help keep the artery open after the procedure.

Angioplasty is typically done in a hospital setting and usually takes about one to two hours. Patients often go home the same day or the next, depending on their individual health conditions. It’s considered a minimally invasive procedure, which means it generally involves less recovery time compared to traditional surgery.