Coronary Angioplasty and Stenting: Your Complete Guide to Heart Health
Dr Amit Singh is a renowned doctor in the field of interventional cardiology. He uses exceptional skills with his empathetic talent ensuring each patient receives personalized care. Specialized in Coronary Angioplasty and Stenting. Dr. Singh serves for Angioplasty, TAVR, Echocardiography, Coronary Angiography and stress testing. ensuring highest standard of care
Coronary angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure to open blocked or narrowed coronary arteries. It improves blood flow to the heart muscle, reducing chest pain and lowering the risk of future heart attacks. It is step after coronary angiography, when it shows blockages.
What is coronary stenting?
Coronary stenting often follows angioplasty. It involves placing a small, mesh-like tube (stent) in the artery to keep it open. This helps maintain improved blood flow to the heart.
When are coronary angioplasty and stenting recommended?
These procedures may be recommended for:
Severe coronary artery disease / blockages
Unstable angina / worsening chest pain
Failed medical therapy for stable angina (chest pain not controlled by medicines).
Certain types of heart attacks
How are coronary angioplasty and stenting performed?
The process typically involves:
Inserting a catheter into an artery, usually in the groin or wrist
Guiding the catheter to the blocked coronary artery with help of X-rays
Inflating a small balloon to widen the artery (angioplasty)
Placing a stent to keep the artery open (stenting)
Removing the catheter
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. You’ll receive local anesthesia at the catheter insertion site and may be given a sedative to help you relax.
How long do coronary angioplasty and stenting take?
The procedure usually takes 1-2 hours. However, you may need to stay in the hospital for observation, often overnight.
What are the risks of coronary angioplasty and stenting?
While generally safe, potential risks include:
Bleeding or bruising at the catheter site
Blood clots
Restenosis (re-narrowing of the artery)
Rare complications like heart attack or stroke
How do I prepare for the procedure?
Your doctor will provide specific instructions, but generally:
Avoid eating or drinking for 6-8 hours before the procedure
Inform your doctor about any medications you’re taking
Arrange for someone to drive you home afterward
What happens after coronary angioplasty and stenting?
After the procedure:
You’ll rest for several hours
Your healthcare team will monitor your vital signs
You may start taking blood-thinning medications
Your doctor will discuss follow-up care and lifestyle changes
How soon can I return to normal
activities?
Most people can return to light activities within a few days. However, full recovery may take a week or more. Your doctor will provide specific guidance.
Are coronary angioplasty and stenting permanent solutions?
While these procedures can significantly improve heart health, they’re not permanent cures. You’ll need to maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle and follow your doctor’s recommendations to prevent future blockages.
What’s the difference between drug-eluting and bare-metal stents?
Drug-eluting stents are coated with medication that helps prevent restenosis. Bare-metal stents don’t have this coating. Your doctor will determine which type is best for you.
How successful are coronary angioplasty and stenting?
These procedures have high success rates in improving blood flow and reducing symptoms. However, success can vary depending on the severity and location of the blockages.
Will I need to take medications after
the procedure?
Yes, you’ll likely need to take antiplatelet medications to prevent blood clots from forming in the stent. Your doctor will provide a specific medication plan.
Understanding coronary angioplasty and stenting can help you make informed decisions about your heart health.
Consult us today for personalized advice and to determine if these procedures are right for you.
FAQs
What is angioplasty and why might I need it?
Angioplasty is a medical procedure used to open up blocked or narrowed coronary arteries, allowing for better blood flow to the heart. You might need angioplasty if you have significant blockages in your arteries that are causing chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or other symptoms of coronary artery disease. It’s a common procedure that helps prevent heart attacks and improves overall heart function.
How is a stent used in angioplasty?
During angioplasty, a small balloon is inserted into the blocked artery and inflated to widen it. After the artery is opened, a stent—a small, mesh tube—is placed inside to keep it open. The stent acts as a scaffold, ensuring that the artery remains open, improving blood flow, and reducing the risk of it narrowing again.
What can I expect during and after the procedure?
Angioplasty and stenting are typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation, meaning you’ll be awake but relaxed and comfortable. The procedure usually takes about an hour, and most patients can go home the next day. After the procedure, you may experience some soreness at the catheter insertion site and will need to avoid strenuous activities for a short period. Your doctor will provide specific instructions for your recovery and any medications you may need to take.
Are there any risks associated with angioplasty and stenting?
As with any medical procedure, there are some risks involved with angioplasty and stenting. These can include bleeding at the catheter insertion site, artery damage, blood clots, or an allergic reaction to the dye used during the procedure. However, serious complications are rare, and the benefits of the procedure in improving heart health and preventing heart attacks generally outweigh the risks. Your cardiologist will discuss these risks with you in detail before the procedure.
How will angioplasty and stenting affect my lifestyle?
Angioplasty and stenting can significantly improve your quality of life by relieving symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath. After the procedure, many patients find they can return to their normal activities, including exercise, with improved endurance. It’s important to follow a heart-healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and taking prescribed medications. Regular follow-up appointments with your cardiologist will help ensure your heart remains healthy and any issues are addressed promptly.
