Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure performed to open blocked arteries. It is used when blood flow in one or more of your coronary arteries is restricted. This restriction, if left untreated, can lead to chest pain, possible heart attack or stroke.
Angioplasty takes 1 to 2 hours and is performed at a hospital or surgical center. Though you will be awake during the procedure, you will receive medication to help you relax.
The site where the catheter will be inserted is numbed, and imaging techniques are used to guide a balloon- tipped catheter into the artery to be treated. Once there, the balloon on the end of the catheter is inflated to break down the plaque and/or push it against the artery wall. Then the balloon is deflated.
This is repeated several times until satisfactory results are achieved. At this point, the catheters are removed and blood flows freely through the artery.
During the procedure, the IV sedative may make you relaxed and sleepy. You may feel slight pressure when the catheter is inserted and mild discomfort when the balloon is inflated. This should lessen as the balloon is deflated. You will remain in recovery for several hours during which time your catheter site will be checked for bleeding or swelling, and your vitals will be monitored. Your physician may prescribe medication prevent blood clots. After you return home, you will be instructed not to lift heavy objects or exercise strenuously for 24 hours. You should avoid smoking on a permanent basis.