Angioplasty opens blocked arteries that supply blood to your heart (to coronary arteries). It is used when arteries become narrowed by a build up of fats and cholesterol called plaque. Then your heart does not get the blood it needs. That can cause angina and lead to a heart attack.
- Learn more about angioplasty
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Angioplasty relieves symptoms of coronary artery disease by improving blood flow to your heart. In angioplasty, a tiny balloon is inflated in the clogged artery. This pushes the plaque against the artery walls and reopens the artery.
How is angioplasty done?
- A doctor inserts a thin plastic tube or catheter into an
artery in your leg or arm. The catheter is guided into the coronary arteries that feed the heart.
- The doctor watches on a special x-ray camera and guides the catheter to the narrow spot. Next, a small catheter with a tiny balloon tip goes through the first catheter.
- The balloon tip is inflated when it reaches the narrow part of the artery. The balloon pushes against the plaque to open the artery.
- Then the balloon is deflated and the catheters are taken out.
How will it feel?
- Angioplasty causes little pain. You will be awake while it happens, which usually takes about 45 minutes.
- The doctor will numb the area where the catheter will be places. You may feel some pressure as the catheter is moved around.
- You may experience angina when the balloon is inflated. Angina symptoms at this stage are very common because the inflated balloon temporarily blocks the flow of blood down the artery. Because the balloon is often inflated and deflated several times, you may fell angina coming and going.
After it is over, the doctors and nurses will watch you closely for several hours.
What is a stent?
- A stent is an expandable mesh, which has been developed to keep the artery open.
- It is made of high quality stainless steel.
How does a stent work?
The stent is placed over the same type of balloon that is used for your PTCA. When the balloon is inflated, the stent expands and is pressed into the artery wall. The balloon is deflated and removed while the stent remains in place, keeping the artery wide open.
Going home after Angioplasty
Before you go home, your nurse will review the following information with you:
- Resuming activities
- What you should watch for when you go home
When to notify your doctor - How to treat angina
If you had a Femoral Artery Angioplasty:
- Rest at home for the remainder of the day and resume light activities such as walking the next day.
- You may drive the next day unless advised differently by your Doctor.
- For the first week at home: avoid lifting or carrying anything heavier than 15lb. Or strenuous activities such as cycling or jogging. Also, avoid activities that involve bending at the groin (for at least three days) for more then one hour at a time. For example, when sitting for an hour make sure you get up and walk around, gardening, etc. Shower rather then bath for the first two days at home.
If you had a Radial, Wrist Artery Angioplasty:
- A dressing will be placed on your wrist upon discharge from the hospital. You may remove the bandage the next morning, at home.
- Avoid bending of affected wrist for 8 hours after clamp is removed. For example, typing, computer work, wringing of clothes, knitting, pushing yourself up in bed, etc. You may be given a sling to wear as a reminder not to bend your wrist.
- You may drive the next day unless advised differently by your Doctor.
- Avoid any heavy work or lifting for 48 hours.
You may use Acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) for any discomfort.
What should I watch out for?
- It is normal to have some bruising, a small lump and mild aching over the insertion site for several days. The bruising may last for a few weeks.
- If bleeding of the site should occur, apply firm, hard continuous pressure and seek medical attention at the nearest hospital emergency department.
Where can I get more information?
- Talk to your doctor, nurse, or health care professional.
- Angioplasty can treat Coronary Artery Disease, but it is not a cure. You need to change any unhealthy habits (also called risk factors).
- If you have heart disease, members of your family also may be at higher risk. It's very important for them to make changes now to lower their risks.
Disclaimer
Reviewed by Alberta clinical experts. Brought to you by HealthLink Alberta. Copyright.
This material is designed for information purposes only. It should not be used in place of medical advice, instruction and/or treatment. For more health advice call Capital Health Link at 780-408-LINK (5465) 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In Alberta, call Toll-free: 1-866-408-LINK (5465)
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