Angioplasty
Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to open narrowed or blocked coronary arteries, restoring blood flow to the heart muscle. At Temple Health, we specialize in providing comprehensive angioplasty services, utilizing state-of-the-art technology and a multidisciplinary team of experts to ensure optimal outcomes for our patients.
Angioplasty Procedure
Preparation: Before the procedure, you will receive local anesthesia to numb the area where the catheter will be inserted. You may also be given medications to help you relax.
Insertion of Catheter: A small incision is made in the groin or wrist, and a thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into the artery.
Guidance with Imaging: Using fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray imaging), the cardiologist guides the catheter through the blood vessels to the site of the blockage in the coronary artery.
Balloon Inflation: Once the catheter reaches the blockage, a small balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated, pushing the plaque against the artery walls and widening the artery to improve blood flow.
Stent Placement (if needed): In some cases, a stent—a small mesh tube—is inserted into the artery to help keep it open. The stent is placed over the balloon and expanded when the balloon is inflated. The stent remains in place permanently to prevent the artery from narrowing again.
Completion of Procedure: After the balloon is deflated and the catheter is removed, pressure is applied to the insertion site to prevent bleeding. A bandage is applied, and you are monitored for a short period before being transferred to a recovery area.
Recovery
Immediate Recovery: You will be monitored closely for several hours after the procedure to ensure there are no complications, such as bleeding or abnormal heart rhythms.
Hospital Stay: Most patients can expect to stay in the hospital overnight for observation, but some may be discharged on the same day, depending on their overall health and the complexity of the procedure.
Return to Activities: You may be advised to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a few days following the procedure. Most patients can resume normal activities within a week.
Medications: You will be prescribed medications to prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of complications. It is essential to take these medications as directed by your healthcare provider.
Outcomes
Improved Blood Flow: Angioplasty effectively opens blocked arteries, restoring blood flow to the heart muscle and relieving symptoms such as chest pain (angina) and shortness of breath.
Reduced Risk of Heart Attack: By improving blood flow to the heart, angioplasty reduces the risk of heart attack and other serious complications associated with coronary artery disease.
Symptom Relief: Many patients experience immediate relief from symptoms following angioplasty, with significant improvements in their quality of life.