Coronary artery disease (CAD) or atherosclerosis develops when plaque, a substance comprised of cholesterol, calcium, and other products, accumulates inside the walls of the coronary arteries. The inner lining of the vessel and lumen becomes narrowed and stiff, compromising blood flow and oxygen to the heart muscle. Risk factors for CAD include high cholesterol and triglycerides, high blood pressure (HTN), smoking, obesity, physical inactivity, and diabetes mellitus. Commonly referred to as hardening of the arteries, this condition can cause shortness of breath (SOB), chest pain or angina, weakness, sweating, dizziness, and heart attack. Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure a heart specialist performs to treat CAD and increase blood flow to the heart muscle.

The angioplasty procedure

Pioneered in the 1970s for CAD, angioplasty has technologically evolved in the field of interventional cardiology. The procedure is typically performed in a cardiac catheterization lab where a thin catheter is inserted into a blood vessel in the groin or wrist following anesthesia. The tiny tube is advanced to the heart, and dye is injected into the arteries to evaluate for blockages using an X-ray. If a blockage is identified, a small balloon is passed through the catheter and inflated, opening the artery. A coronary stent or wire mesh tube is often placed to keep the artery open and maintain blood flow. Subsequently, once blood flow is restored, the catheter is removed, and a pressure bandage is applied over the access site.

Health benefits of angioplasty

Angioplasty offers several treatment advantages for CAD. Primarily, angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure often performed on the same day with shorter recovery times and minimal downtime. The procedure can relieve angina symptoms, optimize heart function, and improve quality of life. In some cases, early intervention with angioplasty can restore blood flow in a narrowed vessel, preventing a heart attack and permanent destruction to the heart muscle and structures. Preserving heart muscle is paramount, and a cardiac specialist can provide an evaluation to discuss treatment options and recommendations.

Is angioplasty right for me?

Angioplasty is considered, in consultation with a cardiologist, for symptomatic patients with CAD. Symptoms of heart disease typically occur when the artery is 70% blocked and flow is obstructed. Often, medications are utilized to reduce or slow plaque buildup and lower blood pressure before angioplasty. These measures are frequently combined with lifestyle, dietary, and exercise modifications. If unsuccessful, this cardiac intervention is employed and, therefore, reserved for advanced coronary disease and those who have suffered a heart attack.

Living a longer, healthier life with angioplasty

Angioplasty is a valuable tool in the fight against CAD. As a minimally invasive procedure, angioplasty offers shorter recovery times, little downtime, and faster resumption of normal activities. By restoring blood flow to the heart and reducing complications associated with CAD, angioplasty empowers CAD patients to live longer and healthier lives. Lifestyle modifications can improve long-term health, especially proper diet, exercise, and medication adherence. Talk to a healthcare provider today and discover the many benefits of angioplasty.