Angioplasty is a term that comes from words “angi” (blood vessel) and “plasty” (opening). Angioplasty is a surgical procedure which is used to open a blocked or narrowed artery near the heart. It is the standard treatment for narrowed or clogged arteries. It is also called balloon angioplasty, and opens the arteries to let blood go through easily.

Angioplasty treats atherosclerosis (a collection of plaque made of fats and cholesterol) in arteries. The various conditions where angioplasty is the choice of surgery are: –

• Coronary artery disease- it can help if the artery is narrowed or blocked and thereby improves oxygenation and blood flow that relives symptoms of chest pain.
• Peripheral artery disease- can help resolve atherosclerosis in major arteries of arms, legs and pelvis.
• Carotid artery disease- can help with blocked arteries in neck, if left untreated can lead to stroke.

TYPES OF ANGIOPLASTY

Angioplasty can be classified into two main categories: –

• Balloon angioplasty- it is a treatment procedure that uses the pressure created by an expanding ballon to remove the plaque from the artery. It is the only option, when a stent cannot be placed at the desired location.
• Stent placement- this procedure involves inserting a tube, stent, made of wire mesh in to the artery. After an angioplasty, stents can be used to prevent the artery from narrowing.

PROCEDURE

The surgeon puts a catheter or tube through the skin into the blood vessel of wrist or groin. In the next step catheter is directed toward the coronary artery using X-rays as a guide. Once the catheter is placed a contrast dye is injected into the artery to find the blockages. The surgeon then inserts another catheter and a guidewire after a thorough examination, typically with a ballon at its tip. Then, the surgeon inflated the ballon that pushes the plaque build- up away and opens the artery.  A stent may be used to keep the artery open. One may feel pressure in the area where the catheter is inserted and some discomfort when the balloon is inflated. The procedure and recovery typically takes several hours.

AFTER PROCEDURE

• Blood- thinning medicines- after stent placement one may need to take medicines to prevent blood clots. Medicines like aspirin, clopidogrel, ticagrelor.
• Activity restrictions- strenuous exercise or lifting heavy objects must be avoided for atleast 24 hours after angioplasty and stenting.
• Cardiac rehabilitation- personalised home program of exercise and education must be given it typically involves exercise training, emotional support and education about heart- healthy lifestyle. The supervised program is designed to improve the overall health and quality of life.

RISKS OF PROCEDURE

Although serious angioplasty problems are rare, all invasive procedures include some risks.

• Re- narrowing of artery- also called re-stenosis, is more likely to occur if no stent is used. If the stent is coated with a medicine, there is even less risk of narrowing.
• Blood clots- it can form within stents and these clots can close the artery, causing heart attack.
• Bleeding or infection- during the procedure catheter is inserted into the blood vessel. Bleeding, bruising or infection may occur where the catheter was inserted.

RECOVERY AFTER ANGIOPLASTY

Usually, a person recovers in the hospital within a few hours or overnight. Patient is restricted from lifting heavy weights for around a week. Most people return to work in a week, although the activity levels are prescribed by the doctor.

Angioplasty cost in INDIA

A standard angioplasty procedure in India may cost between Rs 1.2 lakh- 3.0 lakh(approx.). However, pricing may range depending on various factors.

CONSULT YOUR HEART SURGEON

A cardiologist or cardiac surgeon may assist in assessing the cause and treatment plan that is necessary. Gujarat Kidney Hospital is one of the best hospital in Vadodara providing critical care services which is delivered by specialists.