Angioplasty

If a cardiac test, such as an angiogram or cardiac catheterization, determines that you have a blockage in one or more coronary arteries, you may be a candidate for an angioplasty, along with placement of a stent.

Angioplasties are one of the most common interventional treatments performed today. They are performed in a cardiac catheterization lab; if your diagnostic cardiac “cath” confirms that you have a blockage, the cardiologist will probably decide to perform an angioplasty at the same time.

The procedure involves the insertion of a balloon-tipped catheter, which is inserted into an artery, either in your groin or wrist, and advanced to the precise location of the blockage. The cardiologist uses sophisticated x-rays and monitors to guide the balloon into place and then inflates the balloon in order to compress the plaque against the artery walls. This opens the coronary artery and results in improved blood flow.

A stent may be placed into the artery at the same time. The flexible mesh tube pushes the plaque out of the way and remains in place permanently.