Angioplasty

Angioplasty, also known as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), is a minimally invasive procedure used to open blocked or narrowed arteries, primarily in the heart. At Aruna Cardiac Care Hospital, Tirunelveli, our expert cardiologists perform angioplasty to restore proper blood flow to the heart muscle, reducing the risk of heart attack and improving heart function.

Angioplasty is typically recommended for patients with:

• Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): When plaque buildup (atherosclerosis) causes the coronary arteries to narrow, reducing blood flow to the heart.
• Acute Coronary Syndrome: Includes conditions like heart attacks where immediate restoration of blood flow is critical.
• Angina: Chest pain or discomfort due to reduced blood flow to the heart, which may be relieved by angioplasty.

• Preparation: Before the procedure, you will undergo a detailed evaluation, including blood tests, an ECG, and possibly an angiogram to identify the exact location and severity of the blockage.
• The Procedure:
  • Local Anesthesia: The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia with mild sedation, ensuring you are comfortable but awake.
  • Catheter Insertion: A small incision is made in the groin or wrist, and a catheter is inserted into the artery. The catheter is guided to the blocked area in the coronary artery using X-ray imaging.
  • Balloon Inflation: Once the catheter reaches the blockage, a tiny balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated. This balloon presses the plaque against the artery walls, widening the artery and restoring blood flow.
  • Stent Placement: In most cases, a stent (a small wire mesh tube) is placed in the artery during angioplasty to keep it open and prevent re-narrowing. The stent remains in place permanently.
• Completion: After ensuring the artery is open and blood flow is restored, the balloon is deflated and removed along with the catheter. The incision site is then bandaged.

• Recovery: You will be taken to a recovery area for monitoring. Most patients need to stay in the hospital for a day or two. Your heart function will be closely observed to ensure the procedure’s success.
• Post-Procedure Care:
  • Medications: You may be prescribed medications such as blood thinners, antiplatelet drugs, and cholesterol-lowering medications to prevent clotting and further plaque buildup.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Our team will provide guidance on adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, including dietary changes, exercise, and quitting smoking, to maintain the benefits of the procedure.
  • Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor your heart health, assess the stent’s function, and adjust medications as needed.
• Returning to Normal Activities: Most patients can gradually return to normal activities within a week or so, but strenuous activities should be avoided for a longer period as advised by your doctor.

At Aruna Cardiac Care Hospital, Tirunelveli, we are dedicated to providing:

• Expertise: Our highly trained cardiologists and interventional specialists have extensive experience in performing successful angioplasties.
• Advanced Technology: We utilize cutting-edge technology and techniques to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.
• Comprehensive Care: From pre-procedure evaluations to post-procedure follow-ups, we offer a full continuum of care tailored to each patient’s needs.

For more information or to schedule a consultation for angioplasty, please contact us at +91 9487 66 55 77 . Our compassionate team is here to provide the highest quality of cardiac care.