Usually, the decision to proceed with an angioplasty is made directly after a coronary angiogram has been completed and while a patient is still in the catheterization lab. However, the angioplasty may occasionally be performed later that day or the next day.
Angioplasty Procedure
A small "guiding catheter" is directed to the opening of the diseased artery. The angioplasty balloon is guided through this catheter, which can be seen on an X-ray and is viewed as it moves across the narrowed area.
Once the catheter is positioned, the cardiologist inflates the balloon that compresses and molds the plaque into the wall of the artery. Blood flow is temporarily diminished, and patients may feel pain similar to heartburn. The narrowing is almost immediately opened, and normal blood flow is reestablished to the previously blocked artery.
The expandable walls of the artery can withstand the pressure of balloon inflation without rupturing. Sometimes it takes several inflations to achieve a satisfactory result. After the final inflation, the balloon is deflated and pulled out along with the guiding catheter. Once the procedure is complete, the catheters are removed from the groin.
Angiography
An angiogram is performed before an angioplasty procedure. Learn More
