Coronary Angioplasty

A coronary angioplasty is a procedure designed to widen blocked or narrowed coronary arteries, which are the main blood vessels that supply blood to the heart. At Apollo Hospitals in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, our skilled cardiothoracic and vascular surgeons performs this procedure with exceptional precision. With an impressive success rate in coronary angioplasty, we are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes for our patients.

When is a Coronary Angioplasty Required?

A coronary angioplasty might be recommended when a doctor believes that coronary artery disease can be treated without surgery. Conditions that might require an angioplasty include:

• A heart attack
• Frequent or severe angina
• Lack of response to medication and lifestyle changes
• Indications of reduced blood flow to the heart

What Happens During the Procedure?

The procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into a large artery in the groin or arm and carefully guiding it to the affected coronary artery using X-ray imaging. The catheter has a small balloon at its tip that is inflated once it reaches the blockage site. This inflation pushes the plaque against the artery wall, creating more space for blood to flow. Afterward, the balloon is deflated and removed, leaving the artery open for improved blood circulation.

Angioplasty often includes placing a small wire mesh tube called a stent to keep the artery open. The stent is positioned and expanded using the catheter and balloon, then the balloon is removed. The stent helps prevent the artery from narrowing again. Nowadays, coronary angioplasty with stent placement is more commonly performed than angioplasty alone.

Post-Surgery Care

• Avoid strenuous exercise or lifting heavy objects for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
• Do not take baths or swim for the first week; showers are allowed, but keep the catheter insertion site dry for the first 24 to 48 hours.
• Refrain from driving for one week following the procedure.
• If the angioplasty was planned, you should be able to return to work after a week.
• Adhere strictly to your medication schedule; discontinuing medication early increases the risk of a heart attack due to blockage in the treated artery.
• Cardiac rehabilitation will be offered to help you recover and return to daily activities as quickly as possible.