What is Angioplasty with a Stent?
Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of death globally, killing over 19 million people each year. One of the most common cardiovascular conditions is ischemic heart disease, which occurs when the heart does not get an adequate flow of blood and oxygen. This condition develops when the arteries are narrowed or blocked, making them incapable of carrying enough oxygen and blood. Angioplasty with a stent is a minimally invasive medical procedure that can help patients get relief from ischemic heart disease and associated symptoms. Let's discuss how this treatment works and the benefits you can expect.
What is angioplasty with a stent?
Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of death globally, killing over 19 million people each year. One of the most common cardiovascular conditions is ischemic heart disease, which occurs when the heart does not get an adequate flow of blood and oxygen. This condition develops when the arteries are narrowed or blocked, making them incapable of carrying enough oxygen and blood. Angioplasty with a stent is a minimally invasive medical procedure that can help patients get relief from ischemic heart disease and associated symptoms. Let's discuss how this treatment works and the benefits you can expect.
Who Needs an Angioplasty?
When a person’s arteries get partially or completely blocked, they may experience severe chest pain called angina. This pain is typically a symptom of inadequate blood flow to the heart. Many patients experience improvements by making lifestyle changes and taking their prescribed medications. However, some patients develop a severe form of this health condition and require angioplasty to restore the flow of blood.
If you or your loved one experience a tightening sensation or pain in the chest area, you should seek medical care. Doctors can evaluate your condition and tell you whether an angioplasty is a good solution for you. In some cases, an angioplasty may be necessary for a patient who has just survived a heart attack.
Angioplasty is a suitable solution when only a few of the coronary arteries have been blocked. If a patient has multiple blocked arteries, structural issues in these arteries, or a blockage in the left anterior descending artery, the doctor may opt for bypass surgery. However, for less complicated cases, angioplasty is a quick and convenient option to optimize your heart's health.
The Coronary Angioplasty Procedure: An Overview
Qualified cardiologists can perform the angioplasty procedure to stretch an artery open to increase the flow of blood. They place a balloon catheter inside a blood vessel and take it toward the blocked artery. Once the balloon is in position, the specialist inflates it to create more space inside the narrowed artery. Nowadays, most doctors prefer to execute angioplasty with a stent, in which they insert a mesh tube inside the artery. This tube, called a stent, remains inside the patient's body to ensure proper blood flow.
This minimally invasive treatment option does not require general anesthesia. The medical team performs local anesthesia and inserts the balloon catheter to complete this procedure. Typically, angioplasty with a stent takes only thirty minutes to two hours, making it a convenient procedure for people with heart problems.
Benefits of Getting an Angioplasty
Patients experience the following benefits with angioplasties:
- It can prevent mortality and minimize damage to the heart muscle during a heart attack.
- It can alleviate the risk of stroke and recurrent heart attacks
- It can reduce angina and related symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath.
Angioplasty does not require significant incisions in one’s body, making it a convenient option for treating heart issues. It is a relatively safe procedure for many people, allowing them to deal with ischemic heart conditions and enjoy a better quality of life. If you want to explore angioplasty and other cardiovascular treatment options in India, contact the Ace Medicare team today! They can connect you to specialists and help you lead a healthier life.