Coronary Angioplasty | Dr. Mehul Rathod

Heart diseases remain one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and blocked arteries are often at the core of most cardiac emergencies. Among the various treatment options, coronary angioplasty stands out as a minimally invasive, highly effective procedure that helps restore blood flow to the heart. As a Consultant Interventional Cardiologist in Latur, Dr. Mehul Rathod brings expertise and precision to this crucial heart-saving intervention.

What is Coronary Angioplasty?

Coronary angioplasty, also known as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), is a procedure used to open narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. These arteries supply blood to the heart muscle, and blockages can lead to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or even a heart attack.

During angioplasty, a small balloon is inserted into the blocked artery and inflated to widen the artery. In most cases, a stent (a small wire mesh tube) is then placed to keep the artery open long-term.

When is Coronary Angioplasty Recommended?

• Acute heart attack (Myocardial Infarction)
• Unstable angina (chest pain at rest or worsening over time)
• Severe narrowing of coronary arteries causing symptoms
• Poor blood flow identified during stress tests or coronary angiography

It is particularly useful in emergency settings where time is critical to prevent irreversible damage to the heart muscle.

How is the Procedure Performed?

• Preparation: Local anesthesia is given, usually in the wrist or groin area. A thin tube (catheter) is inserted into a blood vessel.
• Guiding the Catheter: Using live X-ray imaging, the catheter is guided through the blood vessels to the heart.
• Balloon Inflation: A tiny balloon at the tip of the catheter is positioned at the site of blockage and inflated to compress the plaque against the artery wall.
• Stent Placement: A stent is placed at the site to keep the artery open. Most stents used today are drug-eluting, which release medication to prevent future blockage.
• Completion: Once the stent is in place, the balloon and catheter are removed, and pressure is applied to the insertion site to prevent bleeding.

The entire procedure usually takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the number of blockages.

Recovery After Angioplasty

• Medications: Blood thinners are essential to prevent blood clots inside the stent.
• Lifestyle Changes: A heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and stress management are crucial.
• Regular Follow-ups: Routine check-ups help monitor heart health and stent function.

• Minimally invasive with quicker recovery than open-heart surgery
• Immediate relief from chest pain and breathlessness
• Reduced risk of heart attack in patients with blocked arteries
• Short hospital stay and faster return to daily life
• Effective alternative to bypass surgery for many patients

Coronary angioplasty is a vital procedure that can significantly improve symptoms and reduce the risk of heart attacks in patients with coronary artery disease. Early diagnosis and timely intervention can make all the difference.

If you’re experiencing chest discomfort, fatigue, or shortness of breath, consult Dr. Mehul Rathod, leading Interventional Cardiologist in Latur, for expert cardiac evaluation and care.