Angioplasty

RK Heart Care > Angioplasty

Angioplasty stands out as a groundbreaking advancement in the realm of medical science, providing a transformative solution for hearts facing ailments. This innovative procedure facilitates the restoration of smooth cardiac function. If you have experienced a heart attack or are at risk of one, it is crucial to seek the seasoned counsel of cardiologist Dr. Ravi Kiran Muddada before considering angioplasty. His expert guidance ensures a well-informed decision and personalized approach to your cardiac health.

What is an Angioplasty?

Angioplasty is a medical procedure designed to address the obstruction of blood flow caused by a narrowed or blocked artery near the heart. This minimally invasive and painless intervention involves the use of a catheter, a slender pipe-like medical device, which is carefully threaded through the artery to reopen the blockage. Notably, angioplasty is a safe procedure, ensuring a hundred percent safety in addressing issues related to restricted blood flow.

When is an angioplasty needed?

Particles suspended in your blood, such as blood clots and cholesterol, have the potential to settle along the walls of your arteries, gradually constricting or blocking the passage of blood. This condition poses a risk of heart failure, which can be life-threatening. To address this, angioplasty is employed as a therapeutic intervention to widen the arteries.

Angioplasty is considered in the following situations:

  1. Heart Attack: In cases where a heart attack has occurred due to a blocked artery or there is a high risk of it.

  2. Heart Failure: When narrowed arteries contribute to or pose a high risk of heart failure.

  3. Congenital Narrow Arteries in Children: In instances where a child has congenitally narrow arteries, posing a threat to the heart’s health. Angioplasty is utilized to address and alleviate this condition.

How is an angioplasty performed?

Throughout the procedure, you will be positioned on your back, and a sedative administered via an IV line will alleviate any discomfort. Additional anesthesia is typically applied near the insertion point, often around the groin area.
Guided by a catheter, the medical team navigates through your blood vessels to the location of the blockage or narrowed artery. Concurrently, an angiogram may be conducted to monitor the entire process.
Once at the affected area, a small balloon is inflated to widen the artery, followed by a deflation and retracing of the balloon. Alternatively, a collapsed stent may be placed to maintain artery openness. The stent expands and adheres to the blood vessel wall, facilitating unimpeded blood flow.
For individuals with multiple blockages, the procedure is reiterated as necessary. Subsequently, the catheter is withdrawn, and pressure is applied at the insertion site to prevent bleeding. Overnight observation is standard to ensure a smooth recovery process.

What should you do after an angioplasty?

Following angioplasty, it is crucial to adhere diligently to the prescribed medication regimen. Hydration is key to flushing out the angiogram dye, so it’s advised to consume ample water. Initially, unless otherwise recommended, prioritizing rest is essential. Gradually, within a week, resuming your regular activities is generally permissible.

However, it’s important to note that specific dietary and exercise restrictions may be applicable, contingent upon your precise health condition. It is advisable to follow any additional guidelines provided by your healthcare professional to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.

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