Angioplasty and Stent Placement
Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to open narrowed or blocked arteries and restore normal blood flow. It is often performed after an arteriogram if a blockage is found. A stent, a small metallic mesh tube, maybe placed inside the arteries to keep a narrowed or blocked vessels open and reduce the need for major surgery. Some stents are coated with medicine to minimize scar tissues, and they come in various sizes to match the treated vessel.
Preparation: Angioplasty is usually performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia. The skin where the catheter will be inserted is sterilized and numbed.
Catheter Insertion: Using real-time X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy), a tiny puncture is created where a thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into an artery. The catheter is carefully navigated through your blood vessels to the site of the blockage.
Arteriogram and Vessel Mapping: A contrast dye is injected to create detailed X-ray images of the arteries and pinpoint the exact location and severity of the narrowing or blockage. If significant narrowing is found, angioplasty is often performed immediately during the same procedure.
Balloon Inflation: Once the catheter is in place, a tiny balloon attached to its tip is positioned within the narrowed section of the artery. The balloon is then gently inflated, pressing the plaque against the artery walls and widening the vessel to restore blood flow.
Stent Placement (If Needed): In some cases, a stent is placed at the site of the blockage to help keep the artery open long-term. The stent remains in place permanently and supports normal blood flow.
Completion and Removal: After the balloon is deflated and removed, the catheter is withdrawn, and a small bandage is placed over the puncture site. No stitches are required.
Recovery and Results: Most patients are able to go home the same day and resume normal activities within 24–48 hours. Improvement in blood flow is often immediate, and symptoms such as leg pain, cramping, or fatigue usually improve rapidly. Stent placement may slightly extend recovery time, but most patients still experience a quick return to daily activities.
Angioplasty offers significant benefits over traditional surgery, including smaller incisions, faster recovery, and immediate improvement in circulation. Regular follow-up care, including lifestyle changes and medications, is often recommended to maintain artery health and prevent future blockages.