Coronary Angioplasty and Stent Insertion

Coronary angioplasty, also known as percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), is a minimally invasive procedure used to open up blocked or narrowed coronary arteries. The goal of the procedure is to restore blood flow to the heart muscle, relieving symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath.

Procedure Overview

The procedure typically involves the following steps:

• A small incision is made in the skin, usually in the groin or arm, to access an artery.
• A catheter (a thin, flexible tube) is inserted into the artery and guided through the blood vessels to the coronary arteries using X-ray imaging.
• A contrast dye is injected into the coronary arteries to visualize any blockages or narrowing on the X-ray images.
• A balloon catheter is then inserted through the guiding catheter and positioned at the site of the blockage.
• The balloon is inflated, which expands the artery and pushes aside the plaque that is blocking the flow of blood.

Stent Insertion

After the angioplasty procedure, a stent may be inserted to keep the artery open. A stent is a small, mesh-like tube made of metal or plastic that is expanded at the site of the blockage.

• The stent is mounted on a balloon catheter and guided to the site of the blockage.
• The balloon is inflated, expanding the stent and pressing it into place against the artery wall.
• The balloon is then deflated and removed, leaving the stent in place to keep the artery open.

Types of Stents

There are two main types of stents:

• Bare-metal stents: These stents are made of metal and are designed to keep the artery open.
• Drug-eluting stents: These stents release medication that helps prevent the growth of new tissue, reducing the risk of restenosis (re-narrowing of the artery).

Risks and Complications

As with any medical procedure, there are risks and complications associated with coronary angioplasty and stent insertion. These may include:

• Bleeding or bruising at the site of the incision.
• Infection.
• Damage to the artery or surrounding tissue.
• Restenosis (re-narrowing of the artery).
• Stroke or heart attack.

Recovery and Follow-up

After the procedure, patients are typically monitored in a recovery room for several hours to ensure that there are no complications. Patients may need to stay overnight in the hospital for observation.

• Patient will need to rest and avoid strenuous activities for several days after the procedure.
• Medications, such as aspirin and anti-platelet agents, may be prescribed to prevent blood clots from forming.
• Follow-up appointments with a doctor are necessary to monitor the patient's condition and adjust medications as needed.

Indications for Coronary Angioplasty and Stent Insertion

Coronary angioplasty and stent insertion may be indicated for patients who:

• Have symptoms of coronary artery disease, such as chest pain or shortness of breath.
• Have had a heart attack or are at high risk of having one.
• Have blockages in multiple coronary arteries.

Contraindications for Coronary Angioplasty and Stent Insertion

Coronary angioplasty and stent insertion may not be suitable for patients who:

• Have severe kidney disease or are on dialysis.
• Have a history of bleeding disorders or are taking anticoagulant medications.
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding.