Coronary Angioplasty and Stent
A Coronary Angioplasty is a procedure used to open the clogged arteries in the heart. A balloon is inserted into the clogged artery and inflated to open it up. It is often done with a split procedure that is used to keep the arteries open so that blood can flow through them properly. After the balloon angioplasty, a metal tube called stent is placed in the artery to keep artery open. The treatment is usually successful, and some people need to have it done more than once.
Who may need a Coronary Angioplasty and Stent
This procedure is done to treat a heart disease called atherosclerosis. Patients usually have chest pain, shortness of breath, chest tightness, fatigue or palpitations resulting from clogged arteries. A person who is suffering from the disease or who has recently been diagnosed with clogged arteries may need the procedure. Doctors will often recommend that a patient try lifestyle changes or medication before they attempt the surgery.
Preparing for A Coronary Angioplasty and Stent
Before the surgery, doctors will do a physical exam and blood tests to determine if the patient is healthy enough for the procedure and if the procedure will work for their problem. The doctor will perform a coronary angiogram on the patient to see which arteries are blocked. Doctors will also give their patients direction about eating and drinking before the procedure. If the patient is taking any medication, the doctor may ask that the patient stop taking them for a short period of time before or after the procedure.
During The Coronary Angioplasty Procedure
During the procedure, the doctor will make an incision over the skin where to put a small tube (arterial line) in wrist artery or groin artery. A sterile sheet is placed over the entry point, and the patient is numbed before the procedure begins. The patient stays awake during the procedure and may feel some pressure but should not feel pain. Doctors will insert some dye into the artery so that they can see it easier to see the blockage. When blockage is identified to be severe, the cardiologist knows where to put the balloon and stent. The balloon is inserted and inflated, and then stent is put into place. The doctor stitches up the incision and takes the patient to a recovery room.
CORONARY ANGIOPLASTY AND STENT RECOVERY
Patients usually stay in the hospital for 24 hours after the procedure. During this time, they will be monitored. Patients can go home the day after the procedure, and it may take a week for them to completely recover. If the patient required a stent or any other procedure during the coronary angioplasty, they might need to stay in the hospital longer, and recovery may take longer as well.
CORONARY ANGIOPLASTY AND STENT COMPLICATIONS
Patients may experience some complications related to the procedure. In most cases, complications are not common or serious. If you do experience any of these complications, contact a doctor immediately to avoid more severe health problems. Some common complications include:
- Bleeding
- Swelling
- Infection
- Blood Clots
- Stroke
- Heart Attack
- Kidney Problems
- Abnormal Heart Rhythms
CORONARY ANGIOPLASTY AND STENT RESULTS
Coronary Angioplasty can help open arteries that are clogged and help patients avoid a heart attack or other disorders of the heart. Patients usually see a decrease in symptoms and less chest pain. If patients do not make lifestyle changes, they may need additional surgery. Doctors may also prescribe medication to the patient to help them avoid future clogged arteries.
