Angioplasty: Surgery, Procedure, Types, Benefits, Complications and Recovery

What is an Angioplasty?

Angioplasty is a medical procedure that helps to restore blood flow through arteries that are narrowed or blocked. This procedure often performed to treat heart problems caused by plaque buildup in the coronary arteries, which can reduce blood flow to the heart.

Angioplasty surgery usually involves inserting a small balloon into a blocked artery and inflating it to widen the artery. A stent may also be added to keep the artery open. This minimally invasive procedure helps to increase blood flow and reduces the risk of heart attacks.

Who Needs to Have Angioplasty?

• Angioplasty is recommended for individuals with coronary artery disease (CAD), where the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed due to plaque buildup.
• People with lifestyle choices like poor diets, smoking, and insufficient physical activity have contributed to an increase in cases of coronary artery disease (CAD).
• Patients experiencing chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or those who have had a heart attack may be candidates for angioplasty surgery.
• It is also suggested for those who have not responded well to medication or lifestyle changes aimed at reducing heart disease risks.

What Does Angioplasty Treat?

Angioplasty is used to treat blocked or narrowed coronary arteries, which are responsible for supplying oxygen-rich blood to the heart. This condition is often associated with heart disease, which is a leading cause of death.

Angioplasty is an effective procedure in relieving angina symptoms, reducing the risk of heart attacks, and enhancing the overall quality of life for individuals with heart disease. Additionally, it can be used to address peripheral artery disease (PAD), which involves the narrowing of arteries in areas such as the legs.

How Common is Angioplasty?

Angioplasty surgery has become increasingly common in India, especially in urban areas where advanced medical resources are readily available. With the rising incidence of heart disease in the country, angioplasty is a frequently performed procedure.

According to reports, India has over a million angioplasty procedures each year, making it one of the most common treatments for coronary artery disease. The easy accessibility and availability of this procedure have made it a preferred option for many patients.

What Happens Before Angioplasty?

Before undergoing angioplasty, a series of evaluations and tests are conducted to make sure the patient is a suitable candidate for the procedure. This typically includes blood tests, an electrocardiogram (ECG), and imaging tests like coronary angiography to visualise the blocked arteries.

Patients are usually advised to fast for a few hours before the angioplasty procedure and may be asked to stop certain medications, particularly blood thinners. It’s also important for the patient to discuss any existing medical conditions with their doctor to avoid any complications during the procedure.

What Happens During an Angioplasty?

Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure primarily designed to treat narrowed or blocked arteries, most commonly in the heart. Angioplasty procedure aims to restore blood flow through the arteries, preventing complications like heart attacks or severe chest pain (angina). This procedure usually takes 1 to 2 hours and is conducted in a catheterization lab (cath lab) by an interventional cardiologist.

Before the angioplasty, the patient receives a mild sedative to promote relaxation, while still remaining responsive during the procedure.

• A local anesthetic is applied to numb the area where the catheter will be inserted, typically in the groin or wrist.
• Once the area is numb, the doctor makes a small incision and inserts a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into the artery.
• The catheter is gently navigated through the blood vessels to reach the blockage in the coronary artery.
• During this process, the doctor uses real-time X-ray images, known as fluoroscopy, to see the exact position of the catheter. This ensures precise navigation through the arteries.
• Once the catheter reaches the blockage, a small balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated.
• This balloon presses the plaque against the artery walls, widening the artery and improving blood flow. This part of the angioplasty surgery is crucial, as it helps to alleviate symptoms and reduces the risk of future heart-related problems.
• In many cases, a stent is inserted into the artery during the angioplasty procedure. A stent is a small, mesh-like metal tube that acts as a support to keep the artery open.
• The stent is attached to the balloon catheter and expands when the balloon is inflated.
• Once the stent is positioned, the balloon is deflated and removed, leaving the stent permanently in the artery to prevent it from narrowing again.
• Throughout the angioplasty, the patient’s vital signs are closely monitored, and any discomfort is addressed immediately.
• Most patients describe sensations of pressure or mild discomfort during the balloon inflation, but they generally do not feel intense pain.
• Once the procedure is complete, the catheter is carefully removed, and the incision site is closed using manual pressure, a closure device, or stitches.

What Happens After Angioplasty?

After angioplasty, patients are transferred to a recovery area where they are monitored for several hours. The recovery period may vary depending on the hospital and patient's overall health status. Generally, most patients are discharged within 24 to 48 hours if no complications arise during the procedure.

It’s essential to follow doctor’s advice regarding medications, particularly blood thinners, and attend follow-up appointments to ensure the artery stays open. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking is advised to sustain the benefits of the angioplasty.

What are the Benefits of Angioplasty After a Heart Attack?

Angioplasty is particularly beneficial following a heart attack, as it restores blood flow to the heart and reduces damage to the heart muscle. In India, where the incidence of heart attacks are becoming more frequent, a prompt angioplasty can greatly enhance survival rates and lower the risk of future heart issues.

The procedure also helps in relieving symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath, allowing patients to return to their daily activities more quickly. Additionally, angioplasty reduces the need for more invasive surgeries like coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

What are the Risks or Complications of Angioplasty?

While angioplasty is usually safe, it does come with some risks, like any other medical procedure. In India, where heart disease is common, it's crucial to be informed about potential complications, including bleeding at the catheter insertion site, blood vessel damage, or allergic reactions to the dye used during the procedure.

In rare cases, serious issues like heart attacks, strokes, or the need for emergency surgery can occur. Another concern is restenosis, which is re-narrowing of the artery, but using drug-eluting stents has made this less common. It is important for patients to discuss these potential risks with their doctor before undergoing the procedure.

What is the Recovery Time After Angioplasty?

Recovery time after angioplasty varies, but most patients in India can resume their usual activities within a week. It’s important to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous workouts for several weeks to ensure proper healing of the artery.

Patients are generally advised to make important lifestyle changes to prevent additional heart problems. This includes eating a healthy diet, regular exercise, and quit smoking. Attending follow-up appointments and taking prescribed medications as instructed are also vital for a successful recovery.

When to See a Doctor?

• It’s important to see a doctor if you experience symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or any unusual discomfort after an angioplasty procedure.
• Timely medical attention can prevent complications and ensure the success of the treatment.
• Patients should contact their doctor if they observe any signs of infection at the catheter insertion site, including redness, swelling, or discharge.
• Regular check-ups are essential to monitor heart health and address any concerns early on.

Conclusion

Angioplasty is a life-saving procedure that has become more prevalent in India due to the growing incidence of heart disease. By following medical guidance and adopting healthy lifestyle habits, individuals can improve the long-term success of angioplasty and enhance their overall quality of life.

Metropolis Labs is a leading choice across India for accurate diagnostics and superior care. Equipped with state-of-the-art testing and a team of highly trained professionals, Metropolis Labs provides comprehensive health check-ups, including cardiac profiles essential before and after angioplasty. Trust Metropolis for precise and timely results, enabling you and your doctor to make well-informed decisions regarding your heart health.