Causes of Angioplasty Treatment
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Description: This is the most common type of angioplasty. A catheter with a small balloon at its tip is inserted into the blocked artery. Once the catheter reaches the blockage, the balloon is inflated, which compresses the plaque against the artery wall and widens the artery to allow better blood flow.
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Description: After balloon angioplasty, a small mesh tube called a stent may be placed in the artery to keep it open. Stents can be drug-eluting (coated with medication to help prevent the artery from narrowing again) or bare-metal (without medication).
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Description: This technique uses a laser catheter to break up the plaque or clot that is blocking the artery. The laser vaporizes the plaque into small particles that can be removed through the bloodstream.
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Description: In this procedure, a small diamond-tipped drill is used to remove plaque from the walls of the artery. The rotational motion helps break up the plaque into small particles that can be washed away by the bloodstream.
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Description: A specialized balloon with tiny blades is used to score or cut through the plaque in the artery. This is especially useful in situations where the plaque is resistant to standard balloon angioplasty.
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Description: This method uses ultrasound imaging inside the artery to guide the angioplasty procedure. It helps the surgeon get a clear image of the blockage and make better decisions about the extent of the balloon inflation or stent placement.
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Yes, angioplasty is a safe and commonly performed procedure when done by experienced specialists. As with any medical procedure, it carries minimal risk, which is significantly reduced with modern techniques and technology.
The results of angioplasty can last several years, especially if combined with lifestyle changes and medication. In some cases, restenosis (re-narrowing) can occur, which may require follow-up treatment.
Angioplasty is generally not painful. Patients may feel slight pressure or discomfort during the procedure, which is performed under local anesthesia and mild sedation.
Most patients can return to work within a week after the procedure, depending on their recovery and the nature of their job. Always follow your doctor's specific recommendations.
Side effects are rare but may include bleeding, infection, or allergic reaction to contrast dye. Serious complications like blood clots or restenosis can occur in a small percentage of patients.
Many patients feel significant relief from chest pain and improved energy levels within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure.
Angioplasty is effective for many types of blockages, but not all. Some complex or multiple blockages may require bypass surgery instead.
No, angioplasty can be performed on adults of any age who have coronary artery disease and symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath.
Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a balloon and possibly a stent to open blocked arteries, while bypass surgery is an open-heart operation that redirects blood around blocked arteries using grafts.
Look for board-certified interventional cardiologists with extensive experience, high success rates, access to modern technology, and patient-centered care.
Yes, most patients stay overnight for observation. In some cases, angioplasty may be done as a day-care procedure depending on the patient's condition and response.
Maintain a heart-healthy diet, quit smoking, manage stress, exercise regularly, and take prescribed medications to prevent future blockages.
Yes, most patients are prescribed blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and medications to prevent clots and reduce heart strain.
The procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the complexity and number of blockages.
Angioplasty improves blood flow and relieves symptoms, but it does not cure the underlying heart disease. Long-term management is essential.
Not always. In some cases, balloon angioplasty alone may be sufficient. However, stents are commonly used to keep the artery open longer.
Yes, modern stents are MRI-safe. However, always inform your radiologist or technician about your stent before any scan.
No, angioplasty is usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation. The patient remains awake but relaxed during the procedure.
If restenosis occurs, your doctor may recommend a repeat angioplasty, stenting, or in some cases, bypass surgery.
Yes, most health insurance plans in India cover angioplasty under their hospitalization or critical illness clauses. Always check with your provider for exact details.