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Angioplasty Surgery is a minimally invasive procedure to improve blood flow to the heart. It is a common treatment for coronary artery disease, which is a narrowing or blockage of the arteries that supply blood to the heart.
Synopsis
Types of Angioplasty
There are two main angioplasty types:
Balloon Angioplasty
A thin, flexible tube with a balloon at the tip is inserted into the artery. The balloon is inflated to widen the artery and compress the plaque.
Stent Angioplasty
A small metal mesh tube (stent) is inserted into the artery to keep it open. Stents are often used in conjunction with balloon angioplasty.
Why is Angioplasty done?
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Angioplasty is recommended for people with coronary artery disease who have chest pain (angina) or other symptoms of heart disease. It can also be used to treat people who have had a heart attack.
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Angioplasty can help to improve blood flow to the heart and reduce the risk of future heart problems.
How is the Angioplasty Procedure done?
Before the Procedure
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Pre-procedure evaluation: Includes detailed medical history, blood tests, ECG, chest X-ray, angiography/CT, and review of current medications.
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Medication & fasting instructions: Stop or adjust blood thinners, NSAIDs; fast for 6–8 hours before the procedure.
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Arrival prep: Change into a gown, establish an IV line for fluids, sedation, and medication
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Site preparation: Hair removal and sterilisation of insertion site (groin or wrist) followed by local anaesthesia.
During the Procedure
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Monitoring: Continuous ECG, blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation throughout.
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Catheter insertion: A sheath and catheter are guided via fluoroscopy from the groin or wrist into the coronary arteries.
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Imaging: Contrast dye is injected to visualise blockages via X‑ray.
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Balloon inflation: A balloon is inflated to expand the narrowed artery, and a stent (typically drug-eluting) is placed to keep it open.
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Completion: Balloon deflated and removed, catheter withdrawn, then the sheath is removed; manual or device-assisted pressure is applied to prevent bleeding.
After the Procedure
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Recovery in hospital: Lie flat for 1–4 hours; vital signs and insertion site monitored for bleeding or swelling.
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Observation duration: Stay 4–48 hours, depending on whether it’s elective or emergency (e.g., post-heart attack).
At-home care:
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Rest for 24 hours; avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 1–2 weeks.
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Maintain hydration to flush out the dye.
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Keep the insertion site clean and dry; avoid baths or swimming for ≥24 hours.
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Monitor for bleeding, swelling, discolouration, pain, or fever; seek immediate care if these occur.
Complications/Risks After Angioplasty
After angioplasty, patients commonly experience bleeding or bruising at the catheter insertion site in the groin or wrist.
More serious risks, though uncommon, involve:
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Artery damage (including dissection)
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Blood clots
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Re-narrowing of the artery (restenosis)
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Heart attack
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Stroke
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Infection
Contrast dye may also cause kidney injury or allergic reactions. During the procedure, there is a rare risk of minor heart rhythm disturbances and coronary artery closure. While fatal complications are rare (<1–2%), careful monitoring and preventive measures like antiplatelet therapy and hydration significantly reduce these risks.
What is the road to recovery like?
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Most people make a full recovery after angioplasty. They can go home from the hospital the same day or the next day after angioplasty. However, it is important to rest for at least a few days and avoid strenuous activity.
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You may also need to take blood thinners to help prevent blood clots from forming around the stent. Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Consulting with an expert cardiologist near you can help you understand aftercare.
Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Heart Complications?
There are several things you can do to prevent complications after angioplasty, including:
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Quit Smoking - Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease and can increase the risk of complications after angioplasty.
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Eat a Healthy Diet - Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium.
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Exercise Regularly - Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
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Maintain a Healthy Weight - Being overweight or obese increases your risk of heart disease and other health problems.
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Take your medications as prescribed - Your doctor may prescribe blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering medications, and other medications to help prevent complications.
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Avoid allergenic foods that cause allergies - By following these lifestyle changes, you can reduce your risk of complications after angioplasty and improve your overall health.
Conclusion
Angioplasty is a medical procedure with life-changing outcomes. It can prove to be life-saving for many. Following proper care is advised. Getting the procedure done at a multispecialty hospital can improve your chances of recovery. Manipal Hospitals Gurugram has some of the best cardiologists in the city to cater to your heart health and help you find the best treatment for your condition. Following a doctor's advice and observing lifestyle changes can prolong the results and prevent further clots.
FAQ's
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Most patients resume normal routines within 2–4 weeks, returning to work, exercise, and leisure activities.
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Long-term, adopting heart‑healthy habits and attending cardiac rehab helps sustain improved quality of life, sometimes even better than before.
Yes, if performed promptly (ideally within 90 minutes), angioplasty can quickly restore blood flow to ischemic heart muscle, significantly reducing damage and improving survival. However, in stable patients more than 24 hours post–heart attack, routine angioplasty doesn’t show additional benefits, and medical therapy may suffice.
Yes, complete (100%) blockages, known as chronic total occlusions (CTOs), can often be reopened using advanced angioplasty techniques and specialised CTO expertise, offering a less invasive option than bypass surgery.
Stents are designed to remain permanently in place. Drug‑eluting stents reduce scar‑tissue regrowth, but some re-narrowing (restenosis) can occur within 6–9 months, with restenosis rates around 2–3%, and success often lasts 7–11 years or more.
You can visit our website or visit Manipal Hospital Gurgaon for a consultation with one of our highly experienced and reputed Interventional Cardiologists.
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