Coronary Angioplasty, also known as Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat blocked or narrowed coronary arteries. During the procedure, a catheter with a deflated balloon at its tip is inserted into the blocked artery. Once in place, the balloon is inflated to compress the plaque build-up, widening the artery and restoring blood flow to the heart muscle. In some cases, a stent—a small mesh tube—is also placed to help keep the artery open and prevent re-narrowing.

When and why do people go for Coronary Angioplasty?

People undergo Coronary Angioplasty when they experience symptoms of coronary artery disease (CAD), such as chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or heart attack (myocardial infarction), caused by narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. The procedure is often recommended when lifestyle changes, medication, or other interventions fail to alleviate symptoms or when there's an immediate threat to heart health. Coronary Angioplasty can effectively restore blood flow to the heart, relieve symptoms, and reduce the risk of complications associated with CAD.

What makes Coronary Angioplasty different from other treatment options?

Coronary Angioplasty offers several advantages over other treatment options for coronary artery disease. Unlike medication alone, which may only manage symptoms or slow disease progression, angioplasty directly addresses the underlying cause of reduced blood flow by widening the blocked artery. This procedure provides immediate relief from symptoms and improves blood flow to the heart muscle, reducing the risk of heart attack and other complications. Additionally, Coronary Angioplasty is less invasive than traditional open-heart surgery, resulting in shorter recovery times, fewer complications, and a quicker return to normal activities.

How does life change after Coronary Angioplasty?

Life after Coronary Angioplasty can bring about significant improvements in heart health, symptoms, and overall quality of life. Following the procedure, many patients experience relief from angina, improved exercise tolerance, and a reduced risk of heart attack or other cardiac events. With restored blood flow to the heart, individuals often find it easier to engage in physical activity and resume their daily activities without limitations. While recovery may involve some lifestyle modifications and ongoing medical management, many patients experience a renewed sense of well-being and improved cardiovascular health following Coronary Angioplasty.

Angina is a medical condition characterized by chest pain or discomfort, caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. It is typically caused by a buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries, which supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart. This buildup can narrow the arteries and reduce blood flow to the heart, leading to chest pain, shortness of breath, and other symptoms. 

Types of Angina: 

• Stable Angina: It is the most common type of angina, where chest pain or discomfort is triggered by physical exertion, stress or emotional distress. 

• Unstable Angina: Chest pain or discomfort occurs even at rest or with minimal exertion, and may indicate an impending heart attack. 

• Variant Angina (Prinzmetal's Angina): Chest pain or discomfort occurs due to spasms in the coronary arteries, which usually occurs during rest. 

Causes:

Angina is primarily caused by the buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries, which may be due to high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, and a sedentary lifestyle. Other factors include stress, alcohol consumption, obesity, and a family history of heart disease. 

Stages:

Angina can progress from stable to unstable angina, which can lead to a heart attack. If left untreated, angina can also cause heart failure or sudden cardiac arrest. 

Screening:

To diagnose angina, doctors at the Cardiology Department of Sterling Hospitals Gurukul Ahmedabad may conduct a physical exam, including an electrocardiogram (ECG), stress test, echocardiogram, and coronary angiography. Blood tests may also be done to check for high cholesterol, diabetes, or other conditions. 

Treatment:

The goal of treatment is to relieve chest pain, prevent complications, and reduce the risk of heart attack or death. Treatment options include medication, lifestyle changes, and surgery or procedures such as angioplasty or coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG). Patients may also benefit from cardiac rehabilitation, which includes exercise, diet, and stress management. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of angina, it is important to seek medical attention from a cardiologist as soon as possible. The Cardiology Department of Sterling Hospitals Gurukul Ahmedabad has a team of experienced cardiologists and advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities to provide the best possible care for patients with angina and other heart conditions.