Balloon Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure to open clogged heart arteries caused by cholesterol plagues by means of a catheter having a balloon on its tips. A stent is also placed inside to keep the artery open while the balloon is deflated and removed. Balloon angioplasty is also called Coronary angioplasty or Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI). It is performed when people with coronary heart disease have severe condition which cannot be treated by medications anymore. It is also used as an emergency treatment after a heart attack.
Overview
Balloon angioplasty is a medical procedure used to treat blockages or narrowings in blood vessels, particularly in the arteries. During the procedure, a tiny balloon is inserted into the narrowed or blocked vessel and inflated to widen the area and improve blood flow.
Why would someone need to have a balloon angioplasty?
Balloon angioplasty is typically performed to treat conditions like coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and carotid artery disease. It helps restore blood flow to the affected areas, relieve symptoms such as chest pain or leg pain, and reduce the risk of serious complications like heart attacks or strokes.
What conditions can balloon angioplasty treat?
Balloon angioplasty can be used to treat blockages or narrowings in various blood vessels, including the coronary arteries of the heart, peripheral arteries in the legs or arms, and carotid arteries in the neck.
Requirements & Evaluation for balloon angioplasty
Before undergoing a balloon angioplasty, a thorough evaluation of the patient's medical history, physical condition, and diagnostic tests is necessary. The healthcare team will assess the severity of the blockage, the patient's overall health, and determine if they are suitable candidates for the procedure.
Different Types of balloon angioplasty
There are different types of balloon angioplasty, such as coronary angioplasty, peripheral angioplasty, and carotid angioplasty, depending on the specific blood vessels being treated.
Procedure for Balloon Angioplasty
During a balloon angioplasty procedure, a small incision is made, and a catheter with a deflated balloon attached to the end is inserted into the blocked or narrowed blood vessel. The balloon is then inflated, pushing the plaque or obstruction against the artery walls, widening the vessel and restoring blood flow.
Before the Procedure
Before the balloon angioplasty, the patient may need to undergo diagnostic tests, follow dietary restrictions, and avoid certain medications. It is important to discuss any allergies, medications, or medical conditions with the healthcare team.
After the Procedure
After a balloon angioplasty, the patient will be closely monitored for a short period. They may need to stay in the hospital overnight for observation or be discharged the same day, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the patient's overall health.
What kind of follow-up care will I have during recovery?
After the procedure, follow-up care may include medications, lifestyle changes (such as quitting smoking or adopting a healthier diet), regular check-ups, and further diagnostic tests to assess the long-term effectiveness of the procedure and monitor overall cardiovascular health.
Risks & Benefits
Possible risks or complications of balloon angioplasty can include bleeding, infection, damage to blood vessels, or adverse reactions to medications or anesthesia. However, the benefits of balloon angioplasty typically outweigh the risks, as it can greatly improve blood flow, relieve symptoms, and reduce the risk of more serious conditions like heart attacks or strokes.
Recovery
The recovery time after a balloon angioplasty varies from person to person. In many cases, patients can resume normal activities within a few days to a week, but it is essential to follow the healthcare team's instructions and allow sufficient time for proper healing.
