admins Cardiovascular diseases remain one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, accounting for millions of lives lost every year. Clinical manifestations of heart disease can severely impact a person’s quality of life.
However, medical advancements have introduced numerous treatments to combat cardiovascular conditions. Among various treatment options, angioplasty is a medical procedure that has revolutionised cardiovascular care, saving countless lives and improving the quality of life for many people with heart conditions.
What is Angioplasty?
Angioplasty, also known as balloon angioplasty or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), is a minimally invasive procedure to widen narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. These arteries supply oxygenated blood to the heart muscle. Coronary arteries can get blocked due to the buildup of fatty deposits called plaque. The blockage in coronary arteries limits the amount of blood that can reach your heart.
Angioplasty widens the blocked or narrowed parts of the coronary artery to allow enough flow of blood to the heart. The procedure involves inserting a thin catheter with a balloon at its tip into the affected artery. The balloon is then inflated to widen the artery and restore blood flow. In some cases, a stent (a small metal mesh tube) may be placed to keep the artery open.
5 Reasons You May Need Angioplasty
Angioplasty is done to restore the blood flow in the coronary arteries. Determining whether an angioplasty is necessary requires a comprehensive assessment by a healthcare professional. Diagnostic tests like angiograms, stress tests, and electrocardiograms are commonly employed to evaluate the patient’s condition and determine the severity of the arterial blockages. Additionally, the patient’s medical history and symptom presentation are crucial factors in the decision-making process.
Let’s explore the five compelling reasons why angioplasty surgery patiala may be recommended:
Severe Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
Coronary artery disease is a prevalent heart condition characterized by the accumulation of fatty deposits or plaque in the coronary arteries. As the plaque grows, the arteries narrow, hindering blood flow to the heart muscle. In severe cases, a complete blockage can lead to a heart attack.
Angioplasty is an excellent option for individuals with severe CAD, as it can rapidly open up the blocked artery, mitigating the risk of a heart attack and potentially saving lives. By restoring blood flow to the heart, patients can experience a significant reduction in CAD symptoms and regain their quality of life.
Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)
Acute coronary syndrome is a term that describes various conditions related to sudden, reduced blood flow to the heart. These conditions include myocardial infarction (heart attack) and unstable angina.
Often, angioplasty is the primary treatment for acute coronary syndrome as it allows rapid blood flow restoration to the affected heart areas. When performed promptly, angioplasty can protect heart muscles from damage and restore heart function, improving outcomes for patients experiencing ACS.
Coronary Artery Dissection
Coronary artery dissection is a rare but serious heart condition that occurs when there is a tear in the inner lining of the coronary artery, creating a false passage for blood flow within the arterial wall. This can slow or block blood flow to the heart, causing complications like arrhythmias, heart attack, or sudden death.
Angioplasty can be an effective intervention for coronary artery dissection as it helps to repair the damaged vessel, restoring normal blood flow. In some cases, stents may be used to hold the opened artery and support the artery’s healing process, preventing further complications.
Angina and Chronic Chest Pain
Angina or chronic chest pain is a common symptom of an underlying heart problem, often appearing as recurring chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. For individuals experiencing chronic chest pain despite optimal medical therapy, angioplasty can be a viable treatment option.
By widening the narrowed coronary arteries, angioplasty can help alleviate the intensity and frequency of angina episodes, providing relief to patients and improving their overall quality of life.
Peripheral and Carotid Artery Disease
Peripheral artery disease is blocking or narrowing major arteries in the arms, legs, or pelvis. Carotid artery disease is the blocking or narrowing of the carotid artery in the neck. The primary cause of the blockage is atherosclerosis, the collection of fat and cholesterol, similar to coronary artery disease.
Peripheral artery disease and carotid artery disease can be treated with angioplasty. Angioplasty effectively restores blood flow to the affected areas, relieving symptoms and allowing patients to resume their daily activities without pain or discomfort.
Is Angioplasty Safe?
One of the most common questions patients have when undergoing angioplasty is, “Is Angioplasty safe?”. The safety of the procedure is a significant concern for people considering angioplasty. As it is a minimally invasive procedure and doesn’t involve making major incisions in the body, angioplasty is generally regarded as a safe procedure.
However, as with any medical procedure, there may be potential risks associated with the angioplasty procedure. The potential risks associated with angioplasty are generally minimal, but this mostly depends on factors like age, severity of the condition, and the patient’s overall health. Risks and complications associated with angioplasty include:
- Bleeding or hematoma
- Artery damage
- Blood clots
- Restenosis
- Coronary artery dissection
- Heart attack
- Stroke
Precautions After Angioplasty
After angioplasty, it is essential for patients to take certain precautions to minimize the risk of complications and ensure a smooth recovery. These precautions may include:
- Taking medication as prescribed by the cardiologist
- Taking care of the incision site for signs of bleeding or infection
- Avoiding strenuous exercise for at least 15 days or as suggested by the cardiologist
- Eating heart-healthy diet
- Avoiding alcohol and tobacco use
- Keeping follow-up appointments with your cardiologist
Angioplasty is a valuable medical procedure that can address various cardiovascular conditions and significantly improve a patient’s quality of life. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if you experience any symptoms indicative of a heart condition, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, or heart palpitations.
Patiala Heart Institute offers top-notch cardiovascular care in Patiala, specializing in angioplasty. Don’t delay in prioritizing your heart health. Contact us today for expert evaluation and personalized care to ensure a healthier heart. Schedule your appointment now to benefit from our advanced angioplasty services in Patiala.
How Long Does The Angioplasty Procedure Take?
The duration of the angioplasty procedure varies depending on the complexity of the case. In most cases, the procedure takes around 30 minutes to two hours.
Is Angioplasty A Surgery?
Angioplasty is a medical procedure, but it is not considered a traditional surgery. Instead, it is a minimally-invasive procedure used to widen the narrowed or blocked blood vessels, typically involving the use of a catheter with a balloon-like device to open up the artery.
Can Angioplasty Be Performed In Emergency Situations?
Yes, angioplasty is often performed in emergency situations, especially during a heart attack or acute coronary syndrome. Timely angioplasty can be life-saving by quickly restoring blood flow to the blocked artery.
