Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) / Angioplasty

Angioplasty in Patiala

Angioplasty, also known as percutaneous coronary intervention, is a surgical procedure designed to open clogged heart arteries. Its primary purpose is to alleviate symptoms caused by blocked blood vessels, such as chest pain and shortness of breath. Cardiac surgeons utilize angioplasty to minimize heart damage during a heart attack. This procedure employs two main techniques: ballooning and stenting, to open obstructed arteries. Ballooning involves inserting a small balloon catheter into the blocked artery to expand it and improve blood flow. Stenting, on the other hand, employs a small wire mesh tube (stent) placed inside the blocked artery to keep it open. These stents are coated with medicine and biocompatible materials to ensure acceptance by the body.

Why Is It Done?

Angioplasty in Patiala is done to relieve atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a condition in which there is a buildup of fatty plaques, that narrows or blocks blood vessels. Cardiologists recommend angioplasty if:

• The patient experiences worsening Angina.

• The patient has suffered a heart attack.

• Lifestyle changes and medications have not improved the heart condition.

Why Choose Manipal Hospitals? 

Manipal Hospital offers exceptional cardiology treatments. Our interventional cardiologists are well-equipped to handle a wide range of cardiac cases. At our state-of-the-art cardiac unit, we prioritize patient care and safety under the guidance of our esteemed cardiology team. We perform coronary angioplasty procedures through the arm, thigh, or wrist to minimize associated risks. Known for our patient-centric approach, Manipal Hospitals Patiala ensures a seamless heart treatment experience. Manipal Hospitals Patiala is known for its comprehensive cardiology treatments, offering angioplasty procedures with a focus on patient safety. If you have any questions, consult our interventional cardiologists.

Risks 

• Re-narrowing of the treated artery, especially if bare metal stents are used.

• Blood clots within the stents lead to blockages and potential heart attacks.

• Bleeding at the catheter insertion site.

Preparation 

Before the procedure

• The Doctors review the patient's medical history and conduct tests such as electrocardiograms, chest X-rays, and blood tests. 

• Angiography is performed to identify clogged and constricted arteries and assess whether angioplasty can open them. If a blocked artery is identified, angioplasty is performed promptly.

• Patients are provided with the following instructions before the procedure:

• Cease certain medications like blood thinners, aspirin, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

• Fast for six to eight hours before the angiography procedure appointment.

• Bring all prescribed medications to the hospital.

• Take approved medications only with a small amount of water.

During the Procedure

• The patient is given a comfortable hospital gown to change into and advised to remove all jewellery and electronic devices like smartwatches etc.

• A cardiologist, supported by a team of cardiovascular nurses and technicians, performs the angioplasty procedure in a cardiac catheterization laboratory.

• The procedure is carried out through an artery in the arm, wrist, or groin area, with the patient receiving a local anaesthetic to relax. Patients may remain awake throughout the procedure without experiencing pain or discomfort.

• Vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, pulse, and oxygen levels are continuously monitored during surgery to ensure patient safety.

• Sedatives and blood-thinning drugs are administered intravenously.

• The procedure commences with the doctor preparing the patient's leg, arm, or wrist area with an antiseptic solution. A sterile sheet covers the patient's body.

• A local anaesthetic is used to numb the area.

• The doctor makes a small incision, inserts a thin guidewire into the blood vessel, and threads a catheter through the artery using live X-rays or an endoscopic device for precision.

• Once the catheter is positioned, a contrast dye is injected to visualize blockages in the angiogram.

• Subsequently, the doctor opens the blocked artery using the ballooning technique, which may be repeated several times depending on the number of blockages. Patients may experience some discomfort during catheter and balloon insertion.

Stenting

Ballooning and stenting procedures are typically performed together. Stents are tiny wire mesh coils, either bare metal or coated with medication, that support the artery walls and prevent re-narrowing.

During Stent Placement

• The catheter's tip has a balloon that the doctor collapses over the stent. The catheter guides the stent to the blocked area.

• As the balloon inflates at the blockage site, the stent expands, positioning itself within the artery.

• The stent remains permanently in the artery, preventing re-narrowing or collapse.

• After stent placement, the doctor deflates and removes the balloon catheter.

• Medications are prescribed to prevent blood clot formation on the stent.

After the Procedure

• Following surgery, the patient is monitored for a few hours, and medication is adjusted as needed. An overnight stay at the hospital is often required. After returning home, patients should:

• Consume plenty of fluids.

• Avoid heavy exercise.

• Refrain from driving for a period specified by the doctor.

• Rest amply.

• Take prescribed medications on time.

• Contact the hospital immediately if they experience discomfort, difficulty breathing, swelling, or chest pain.

Results 

After coronary angioplasty,  patients experience a sense of relief from their symptoms.  Symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath improve, and blood flow through the constricted artery increases. Angioplasty or stenting alleviates symptoms of blocked arteries and removes obstructions, but it does not heal the heart. To prevent further damage, patients must adhere to prescribed medications, maintain a healthy lifestyle as advised by their doctor, and follow palliative care guidelines. A successful angioplasty avoids the need for more invasive procedures like coronary artery bypass surgery. If symptoms persist or reappear, immediate medical attention is crucial.

Consult a top cardiologist if you need Angioplasty in Patiala. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long is the recovery after angioplasty?

Recovery time after planned angioplasty is typically over a week. If the procedure follows a heart attack, recovery may extend to several weeks or months. Healing depends on the extent of damage suffered by the arteries and heart muscles before surgery and compliance with post-care advice.

2. How long does the angioplasty surgery take?

Coronary angioplasty duration ranges from 30 minutes to 2 hours, with variations based on the severity and number of blockages.

3. What are some risks associated with angioplasty?

While angioplasty is generally safe, patients may face risks if they maintain a stressful lifestyle and unhealthy habits afterwards. Potential risks include re-narrowing of the artery, bleeding, blood clot formation, and irregular heartbeat.

4. Is the patient awake during angioplasty?

Yes, patients receive local anaesthesia, numbing the specific procedure area. They remain awake during the procedure, free from pain.

5. What are the dos and don'ts after angioplasty?

After angioplasty, patients should quit smoking, avoid driving (until approved by the doctor), maintain a healthy weight, lower cholesterol levels, consume a low-saturated fat diet, monitor diabetes and blood pressure, take prescribed medications, exercise regularly, and prioritize rest.

Summary 

Angioplasty, also known as Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), is a surgical procedure that opens clogged heart arteries. It is performed to alleviate symptoms caused by blocked blood vessels and reduce damage during a heart attack. Angioplasty uses techniques like ballooning and stenting to open blocked arteries. Ballooning involves inflating a small catheter-mounted balloon, while stenting employs wire mesh tubes (stents) to support artery walls.

This procedure is recommended for individuals with atherosclerosis, which narrows or blocks blood vessels, leading to conditions like worsening angina or heart attacks. Angioplasty carries risks such as re-narrowing of treated arteries, blood clots, and bleeding.

Before the procedure, medical assessments and tests are conducted. During angioplasty, the patient remains awake under local anaesthesia, and the procedure is monitored closely. Afterwards, patients receive post-operative care, including medication, rest, and lifestyle adjustments.