What is angioplasty?

The procedure of removal of blocks from the coronary arteries is called angioplasty.

What equipment is needed for an angioplasty?

A wire is passed through the concerned artery and a balloon is passed through it. The balloon is then expanded to place a metallic stent in the artery. This stent will prevent future blockages in the artery. This is a simple procedure but in some cases, it can get complex.

Who needs complex angioplasty?

• Patients who come in without blood pressure or pulse
• Patients who need the use of ECMO or ventilator support
• Patients with blocks in the junction of two arteries or at the start of the artery
• Patients who have excessive blood clots in the arteries
• Patients with thick calcium deposits in the arteries

Also Read: Doctor, what is an angiogram and why have I been asked to have one done?

What are the latest technologies in angioplasty?

For patients who come in with no pulse or BP, Intra Aortic Balloon Pump (IABP) is used.

For patients with above 70% blockage in the arteries, stenting is recommended. But for those with a blockage of less than 50%, stenting is not required. This leaves the patients who have blockage of 50-70%. To decide whether the person needs stenting, equipment called Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR) is used.

Image-guided angioplasty is used to visualize the inner regions of the artery.

For patients who do not respond to IABP, Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is used.

Kauvery Hospital

With the advanced technologies in the medical field, it is now possible to provide targeted treatment for different problems. If you have been researching to consult with the best cardiologists in Chennai then we will make your job easier. Kauvery Hospital has the best team of cardiologists and electrophysiologists who specialize in treatments of heart problems.

Watch Video on YouTube: What is complex angioplasty?

Listen on Podcast: Angioplasty

Best Cardiologist in Hosur | Best Cardiologist in Salem | Best Cardiologist in Trichy | Best Cardiologist in Tirunelveli

Become a Member to post Articles Back to Profile