Balloon Angioplasty/Stenting

Balloon angioplasty and stenting are minimally invasive procedures used to treat blockages in the arteries. Balloon angioplasty involves the use of a small balloon to widen a narrowed or blocked artery, while stenting involves placing a small metal mesh tube called a stent in the artery to keep it open. These procedures are commonly performed for the treatment of coronary artery disease.

Who needs Balloon Angioplasty/Stenting

Balloon angioplasty and stenting are recommended for people with significant blockages in their arteries that cause symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath. These procedures are also recommended for people who have had a heart attack or are at high risk of having one.

When to see a Specialist:

People who experience symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath should see a cardiologist for evaluation. If the cardiologist suspects a significant blockage, they may recommend a coronary angiogram to assess the extent of the blockage and determine whether balloon angioplasty and stenting are appropriate.

Procedure

• Preparation: Before the procedure, the patient will be given medication to help them relax and a local anesthetic will be applied to the area where the catheter will be inserted, usually in the groin or arm.
• Catheter insertion: A thin, flexible tube called a catheter will be inserted into the artery and guided to the narrowed or blocked artery in the heart using X-ray imaging.
• Balloon inflation: A small balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated to push open the narrowed or blocked area, which widens the artery and improves blood flow to the heart.
• Stent placement: A small, mesh-like metal tube called a stent may be placed in the artery to help keep it open. The stent is inserted on a balloon catheter and inflated at the site of the blockage.
• Balloon deflation and catheter removal: Once the stent is in place, the balloon is deflated and removed along with the catheter.
• Finishing touches: The doctor will ensure the stent is correctly positioned and there are no leaks or complications. The incision site will be closed with a bandage or stitches.
• Post-procedure observation: The patient will be observed for a few hours to ensure there are no complications or adverse reactions to the medication or procedure.
• Recovery: The patient can usually go home the same day, but will need to rest and take it easy for a few days. They will need to avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for a week or two.
• Follow-up: The patient will need to see their doctor for follow-up appointments to monitor their progress, ensure the stent is functioning properly, and make any necessary adjustments to medication or lifestyle changes.

Recovery

After the procedure, patients are monitored in the hospital for several hours to ensure there are no complications. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a few days, although strenuous activity should be avoided for a week or two. Patients will need to take medications to prevent blood clots and manage their heart condition.

Risks

The risks of balloon angioplasty and stenting include bleeding, infection, damage to the artery, heart attack, stroke, and allergic reactions to medications. In rare cases, the stent may become blocked or the artery may narrow again.

Benefits of Balloon Angioplasty/Stenting

Balloon angioplasty and stenting can improve blood flow to the heart and relieve symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath. These procedures can also reduce the risk of heart attack and improve the overall quality of life. Compared to open-heart surgery, balloon angioplasty and stenting are less invasive and have a shorter recovery time.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the success rate of balloon angioplasty/stenting?

The success rate of balloon angioplasty/stenting varies depending on several factors, such as the location and severity of the blockage, the experience of the doctor, and the patient’s overall health. However, the overall success rate is typically high, with a success rate of over 90%.

2. Is balloon angioplasty/stenting painful?

During the procedure, the patient is given a local anesthetic to numb the area where the catheter will be inserted. Therefore, the procedure itself should not be painful. However, some patients may experience discomfort or pressure during the procedure. After the procedure, patients may experience some mild discomfort or bruising at the site where the catheter was inserted.

3. How long does the procedure take?

The duration of the balloon angioplasty/stenting procedure varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of the blockage and the number of stents needed. On average, the procedure takes around 30 to 60 minutes.

4. How long does it take to recover from balloon angioplasty/stenting?

Most patients can go home the same day or the day after the procedure and can resume their normal activities within a few days. However, patients are usually advised to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for a week or two after the procedure.

5. What are the risks associated with balloon angioplasty/stenting?

Like any medical procedure, balloon angioplasty/stenting carries some risks. These risks include bleeding, infection, damage to the blood vessels or organs, heart attack, and stroke. However, these risks are relatively rare, and the procedure is generally considered safe and effective for most patients. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with you before it is performed.