Your arteries can become blocked up over time from deposits of plaque — the buildup of fat, cholesterol, cells, and other substances. This condition is called atherosclerosis, and it can affect any artery in the body.
Why the Procedure Is Done
Angioplasty is often used to restore blood flow to the heart in people who have coronary arteries affected by atherosclerosis, a condition called coronary heart disease (CHD), or coronary artery disease. Angioplasty may also be used to help with other issues, including:
Atherosclerosis in the legs or arms, also known as peripheral artery disease, per Johns Hopkins MedicineRenal vascular hypertension, or high blood pressure caused by the narrowing of the kidney arteries, usually from atherosclerosis, per NYU Langone HealthCarotid artery stenosis, in which the neck arteries supplying blood to the brain become narrowed; carotid angioplasty is often performed to prevent or treat strokes, per Mayo Clinic
During an angiogram, a small tube called a catheter will be inserted into an artery (usually in your groin or arm) and then threaded to the problematic area, such as the coronary arteries. Next, during the angioplasty, a catheter with a balloon on its tip will be inserted and threaded to the blocked artery. The balloon will be expanded to flatten the plaque against the artery wall and improve blood flow, and then deflated and removed.
Angioplasty Recovery
Angioplasty Risks
Blood vessel damage and bleedingAllergic reactions or kidney damage from dye used during the procedure (especially if you already have kidney problems)Irregular heartbeatHeart attackStroke (in rare cases)Artery collapseAnginaScar tissue and blood clots around stents
After an Angioplasty
Stick to a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fatQuit smoking (if you haven’t already)Exercise regularlyReduce stress
Additional reporting by Deborah Shapiro.
