CORONARY ANGIOPLASTY WITH STENT PLACEMENT
Coronary Angioplasty with Stent Placement
Coronary artery disease continues to be one of the most common causes of heart attacks and cardiac emergencies in India. With the rise of sedentary lifestyles, stress, smoking, and unhealthy diets, many people experience gradual narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the heart. When these arteries become blocked, the patient develops symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, and extreme fatigue. In such situations, coronary angioplasty with stent placement plays a crucial role in restoring blood flow and preventing severe heart damage.
Understanding Coronary Blockages
The coronary arteries carry oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. Over time, cholesterol, fat, and other substances accumulate inside these arteries, forming plaque. This condition, called atherosclerosis, reduces blood flow and puts immense pressure on the heart. At first, a person may experience mild chest heaviness or shortness of breath during exertion. As the blockage worsens, symptoms become more frequent and severe. When the artery becomes critically narrowed or completely blocked, the person may suffer a heart attack.
What Is Coronary Angioplasty?
Coronary angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure performed to open narrowed arteries and restore proper circulation. Unlike open-heart surgery, angioplasty does not require large incisions or cutting through the breastbone. Instead, it is performed using a thin catheter inserted through a small puncture in the wrist or groin. With real-time imaging guidance, the cardiologist navigates the catheter to the site of the blockage.
A tiny balloon attached to the catheter is then inflated, widening the narrowed artery. Once the artery is opened, a stent - a small, mesh-like metal tube is placed to keep it open for the long term. Most modern stents are drug-eluting, meaning they slowly release medication to prevent future narrowing.
Benefits of Stent Placement
Stents ensure that the artery remains open and stable. They significantly reduce the risk of re-blockage and improve long-term outcomes. Patients often experience immediate relief from chest pain and shortness of breath. Because the procedure is minimally invasive, recovery is faster, and most patients are able to walk within a few hours and return home within 24–48 hours.
Who Should Consider Angioplasty?
Angioplasty is recommended for individuals who have:
- Severe chest pain due to blockages
- Reduced blood flow identified on tests
- A heart attack requiring emergency intervention
- Narrowing that does not respond to medicines
- Multiple risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, or smoking
Recovery and Lifestyle After Angioplasty
Recovery after angioplasty is smooth and relatively quick. Patients are advised to follow heart-healthy habits, such as eating a balanced low-fat diet, exercising regularly, maintaining ideal weight, managing stress, and avoiding tobacco. Regular follow-ups and medications help keep the stent functioning well and prevent complications.
With experienced cardiologists like Dr. Gaurav, advanced cath lab technology, and 24×7 cardiac support, Apollo Sage Hospitals ensures safe, precise, and high-quality angioplasty care for patients of all age groups.
By Dr. Gaurav Khandelwal, Senior Cardiologist, Apollo Sage Hospitals
