Dr Priya Sharma Healthcare Professional
Angioplasty is a medical procedure used to treat narrow or blocked arteries, usually in the heart or legs. The procedure involves using a small balloon catheter to open up the blocked artery and restore blood flow to the affected area. The catheter is inserted through a small incision in the groin or arm and guided to the site of the blockage using imaging techniques such as X-rays. Once in place, the balloon is inflated, compressing the plaque or blockage against the walls of the artery and widening the passageway. In some cases, a stent, a small wire mesh tube, is also placed in the artery to help keep it open after the balloon is deflated and removed. Angioplasty is typically performed by an interventional cardiologist or vascular surgeon and is often done on an outpatient basis with local anesthesia. It can be a highly effective treatment for certain types of arterial blockages and can help relieve symptoms such as chest pain or leg pain, improve blood flow, and reduce the risk of complications such as heart attack or stroke.


When is angioplasty needed ? What are the medical conditions that require angioplasty ?

Angioplasty may be recommended when a patient has a blockage or narrowing in an artery that is causing symptoms or putting them at risk of serious complications. Some of the medical conditions that may require angioplasty include:
Coronary artery disease: This is the most common reason for angioplasty. It occurs when the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque. Angioplasty can be used to treat chest pain (angina) or to restore blood flow to the heart during a heart attack.
Peripheral artery disease: This condition affects the arteries in the legs and arms and can cause pain, cramping, or weakness in the affected area. Angioplasty may be used to restore blood flow to the affected limb and relieve symptoms.
Carotid artery disease: This condition affects the arteries in the neck that supply blood to the brain and can increase the risk of stroke. Angioplasty may be used to widen the narrowed artery and improve blood flow to the brain.
Renal artery stenosis: This is a narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the kidneys and can cause high blood pressure or kidney damage. Angioplasty may be used to widen the narrowed artery and restore blood flow to the kidneys.
Aortic stenosis: This is a narrowing of the aortic valve in the heart that can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and heart failure. Angioplasty may be used to open up the narrowed valve and improve blood flow.
The decision to perform angioplasty depends on the severity and location of the blockage, as well as the patient's overall health and medical history. A cardiologist or vascular surgeon will evaluate each patient's individual case to determine whether angioplasty is the most appropriate treatment option.
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May 2nd 2023 21:50