Angioplasty and coronary artery stenting + benefits, recovery and risk

**Angioplasty and coronary artery stenting** Coronary angioplasty and stent placement is a medical procedure to open narrowed or blocked heart arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle. In this process, first the narrowed area of ​​the artery is widened with the help of a **small balloon** (**angioplasty**) and then a metal mesh tube called **intravascular stent** is placed to keep the blood flow open. The stent helps stabilize the vessel in the narrowed area and allows blood flow to pass in a better way. This treatment method is also known as "percutaneous coronary angioplasty" (PTCA) or "percutaneous coronary intervention" (PCI). ### **Essential items for performing coronary angioplasty** The heart, like other organs of the body, needs a constant **blood supply**. The network of **blood vessels** that are responsible for feeding the **heart** is known as **coronary vessels**. In adults, these vessels may become narrow and hard. This condition, known as atherosclerosis, reduces blood flow to the heart and may lead to chest pain or angina. While most cases of angina can be controlled with medication, in more severe cases, coronary angioplasty may be necessary to restore blood flow to the heart. This method is usually used as an emergency treatment after a **heart attack**. ### **What is the safety level of coronary angioplasty?** Coronary angioplasty is one of the most widely used heart treatment methods. This method does not require large incisions in the body and is known as a minimally invasive technique. The risk of complications in this method is different depending on the physical condition and medical history of each patient. Generally, with age or in certain circumstances, the risk increases slightly. Before performing **angioplasty**, all possible risks are fully explained to the patient so that he can give full informed consent. ### **Benefits of coronary artery angioplasty** In people with angina, angioplasty can bring the following benefits: - Reduction or disappearance of discomfort such as pain, pressure or heaviness in the chest area - Reducing dependence on angina-related drugs - Improvement of symptoms such as shortness of breath This method helps the person to be more active and improves the ability to do things like climbing stairs or walking. In general, by **increasing the sense of health and improving physical performance**, a person can more easily return to his daily work, job and social life. For those who have had a heart attack, angioplasty can: - **Limit damage to the heart muscle** - **Reduce the possibility of heart attack again** ### **Necessary preparations before performing coronary artery angioplasty** A few days before **angioplasty**, evaluations are usually done to check the general health status of the patient. These tests may include blood tests and general medical examinations. Having proper physical fitness and preventing excess weight can facilitate the **recovery after angioplasty** process. Of course, it is recommended to consult your doctor about the type of activities allowed and suitable for your condition before the operation. In the short video below, **Dr Peter Henriksen**, **cardiologist at NHS Scotland**, gives important tips on **preparation before angioplasty and stenting**. **How is coronary angioplasty done** During an angioplasty, a flexible tube called a catheter and a small balloon are guided into the artery. After passing through the artery, the balloon is inflated to open it, and in some cases, a metal mesh tube called a stent is placed inside the coronary artery. **Stent** puts pressure on the **artery wall** and compresses the fatty deposits in the vessel wall, so that **blood flow** passes through it easily. This procedure usually takes about 30 minutes, although it may take longer depending on the number of blockages. Most patients usually return home the day after **angioplasty**, but they cannot drive immediately. ### **Is there an alternative to coronary angioplasty** In such cases, an alternative surgical procedure called coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) may be considered. The decision about which treatment to choose will be with you and your cardiologist team. For an accurate diagnosis of **heart problems**, it is necessary to refer to an **Echo heart specialist**. **Dr. Dadres**, **heart specialist and echocardiography fellowship in Tehran**, with extensive experience and modern knowledge, are ready to provide specialized and accurate services to dear patients.