The use of angioplasty and stenting has become widespread, with over 1 million procedures performed annually in the United States alone.
Angioplasty is a life-saving procedure that can significantly improve heart health and quality of life. It’s essential to understand this medical intervention, as heart disease remains a leading cause of death globally.
This blog aims to provide a comprehensive overview of angioplasty, including its definition, necessity, and the expertise offered by Ruby Hall Clinic Hinjawadi in performing such procedures. With state-of-the-art facilities and a team of seasoned cardiologists, Ruby Hall Clinic Hinjawadi stands at the forefront of cardiac care.
What is Angioplasty?
Angioplasty, also known as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), is a medical procedure used to open narrowed or blocked coronary arteries to restore blood flow to the heart muscle. It is typically needed when plaque buildup, known as atherosclerosis, restricts blood flow, leading to chest pain (angina) or a heart attack.
During the procedure, a catheter with a balloon at its tip is threaded through the blood vessel to the affected artery. Once in place, the balloon is inflated to widen the artery, and often a stent is placed to keep it open. This procedure is crucial for patients with coronary artery disease to alleviate symptoms and prevent further cardiac events
Types of Angioplasty Procedures
There are several types of angioplasty procedures, each designed to address specific needs and conditions.
Balloon Angioplasty: This is the most basic form of angioplasty, where a small balloon is inflated inside the blocked artery to push the plaque against the artery wall, thereby widening the artery and improving blood flow. This procedure can be performed on various arteries in the body.
Stent Placement: In most angioplasty procedures, a stent, which is a small wire mesh tube, is placed in the artery during the procedure. The stent remains in the artery permanently, keeping it open and allowing blood to flow more freely. This procedure is often used in conjunction with balloon angioplasty.
Coronary Angioplasty: This procedure, also known as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), is used to open blocked or narrowed coronary arteries, which are the main blood vessels supplying the heart. A balloon is used to widen the artery, and a stent is often placed to keep the artery open. This procedure is crucial for patients with coronary artery disease to alleviate symptoms and prevent further cardiac events.
Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI): This is a non-surgical procedure used to treat narrowing of the coronary arteries found in coronary artery disease. The process involves combining coronary angioplasty with stenting, which is the insertion of a permanent wire-meshed tube that is either drug-eluting or composed of bare metal. The stent delivery balloon from the angioplasty catheter is inflated to force contact between the struts of the stent and the vessel wall, thus widening the blood vessel diameter.
Each of these procedures plays a vital role in treating heart disease and improving patient outcomes. The choice of procedure depends on the patient’s specific condition and overall health. At Ruby Hall Clinic Hinjawadi, our team of expert cardiologists is experienced in performing all types of angioplasty procedures, ensuring the best possible care for our patients.
Angioplasty Procedure at Ruby Hall Clinic
At Ruby Hall Clinic, we prioritize patient safety and comfort during the angioplasty procedure. The process begins with the introduction of an inflatable balloon-tipped catheter through the skin in the extremities. This catheter is carefully guided to the clogged or narrow coronary arteries due to underlying atherosclerosis. Once in place, the balloon is inflated to open up the artery and improve blood flow.
Our healthcare providers use fluoroscopy, a special type of X-ray that functions like an “X-ray movie,” to find the blockages in the heart arteries as a contrast dye moves through the arteries. This is known as coronary angiography.
After the angioplasty, patients are advised to rest at home, drink fluids, and avoid exerting themselves for the next 24 hours. Medicines like aspirin or other blood thinners may be prescribed to prevent clotting.
What are Stents, and How do they work?
Stents play a crucial role in the angioplasty procedure. A stent is a small wire mesh tube that is placed in the newly opened area of the artery to help keep the artery from narrowing or closing again.
There are two main types of stents: bare metal stents and drug-eluting stents (DES). DES are coated with medication and are less likely to plug up again. They are now used almost exclusively, with very little use of bare metal stents.
At Ruby Hall Clinic, we use advanced stents, including special drug-coated stents that have been developed to reduce the risk of restenosis, or the re-narrowing of the artery. Our commitment to using state-of-the-art technology and expertise ensures that our patients receive the best care possible.
How Should You Prepare for Angioplasty?
Before undergoing angioplasty, patients are advised to follow certain pre-procedure guidelines. These include fasting (not eating or drinking) for a certain number of hours before the procedure, usually 6 to 8 hours.
Patients also need to inform their healthcare provider about all the medications they are taking, as some may need to be temporarily stopped before the procedure. This often includes blood thinners and certain diabetes medications.
At Ruby Hall Clinic, we prioritize personalized care and patient education. We ensure that patients are well-informed about the procedure, its risks, and its benefits, which have been shown to reduce anxiety and improve post-procedure outcomes.
Risks and Complications of Angioplasty
Angioplasty is a medical procedure used to open blocked or narrowed arteries, typically in the heart. While angioplasty is generally safe and effective, like any invasive procedure, it does carry some risks and potential complications. It’s important to understand these risks before undergoing the procedure.
- Re-narrowing of the artery: One potential complication of angioplasty is the re-narrowing of the artery, also known as re-stenosis. This is more likely to occur if a stent is not used. However, if a stent is coated with medicine, the risk of re-narrowing is significantly reduced.
- Blood clots: Blood clots can form within the stents used during angioplasty. These clots have the potential to close the artery, leading to a heart attack. Medications can be prescribed to help reduce the risk of blood clots.
- Bleeding or infection: During the angioplasty procedure, a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel. There is a small risk of bleeding or infection at the site of insertion.
- Emergency coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG): In rare cases, an emergency CABG surgery may be required during or soon after angioplasty. This is typically due to complications that arise during the procedure.
- Other complications: Other potential complications of angioplasty include damage to blood vessels, heart valves, or arteries; an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia); scar tissue or blood clots forming in the stent; a heart attack; kidney damage (especially in individuals with preexisting kidney problems); and infection.
It’s important to note that the risks associated with angioplasty are generally low, and the procedure is considered safe. However, the specific risks and complications can vary depending on individual circumstances, such as age, overall health, and the presence of other medical conditions.
Post-Procedure Care and Recovery of Angioplasty
Ruby Hall Clinic, known for its advanced technology and expert care, takes several measures to mitigate the risks and complications associated with angioplasty.
These strategies may include:
- Experienced healthcare professionals: Ruby Hall Clinic likely has a team of experienced cardiologists and healthcare professionals who specialize in performing angioplasty procedures. Their expertise and knowledge contribute to reducing the risks associated with the procedure.
- Advanced technology: Ruby Hall Clinic may utilize state-of-the-art equipment and advanced imaging techniques to ensure precise and accurate placement of stents during angioplasty. This can help minimize complications and improve patient outcomes.
- Comprehensive pre-procedure evaluation: Before performing angioplasty, Ruby Hall Clinic likely conducts a thorough evaluation of each patient’s medical history, overall health, and specific risk factors. This evaluation helps identify any potential complications or contraindications, allowing for personalized treatment plans.
- Post-procedure care: Ruby Hall Clinic likely provides comprehensive post-procedure care, including monitoring patients closely for any signs of complications or adverse reactions. This ensures prompt intervention if any issues arise.
It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional at Ruby Hall Clinic or any other trusted medical facility to discuss the specific risks, benefits, and mitigation strategies related to angioplasty in your individual case.
Why Choose Ruby Hall Clinic for Your Angioplasty?
If you’re considering angioplasty, Ruby Hall Clinic in Hinjawadi, Pune, offers several compelling reasons to choose their services. With a focus on advanced technology and expert care, Ruby Hall Clinic strives to provide high-quality healthcare to its patients.
To learn more about the services offered by Ruby Hall Clinic Hinjawadi or to schedule a consultation, visit our website or call us – 1800-210-4949.
