Introduction

Angioplasty is derived from the words Angio meaning vessel and plasticos which means fit for molding. Angioplasty is medical procedure which involves the alteration of a narrowed or obstructed vascular lumen usually caused by atheroma. All kinds of vascular interventions performed in minimally invasive or percutaneous method is part of angioplasty.

Angioplasty was first used in 1977 where a tiny balloon is used to open and widen narrowed arteries. Now the procedure has improved with the use of modern devices like stents, lazer and new methods.

Procedure

Coronary Angioplasty involves a small incision to be made in the arm or groin to find an artery. The cardiologist leads a thin wire through the incision to the blocked artery. As soon as the wire reaches the blocked artery, a catheter with a deflated balloon is passed over the inserted wire to the blocked area. When the tube reaches the blockage the balloon is inflated which in turn widens the artery the increase the blood flow. Plaque removers may be used to remove deposited plaque from the walls of the artery. Modern devices like stents are used to keep the artery open. The stent is permanently fixed. After about 4 to 5 hours of the Coronary Angioplasty the wire and catheter are removed.

Length

Coronary Anigioplasty usually takes about 2 hours. During the procedure, the patient is kept awake but feels drowsy as an effect of medication given to him.

Risks

Angioplasty has certain risks though the process has become considerably safer than before. The risks involved are