Coronary Angioplasty (Percutaneous Coronary Intervention – PCI)
Coronary angioplasty, also known as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), is a minimally invasive procedure used to open clogged heart arteries and restore blood flow to the heart.
How is it Done?
- A tiny balloon catheter is inserted into the blocked artery.
- The balloon is inflated, pushing the plaque against the artery walls, widening the vessel.
- A stent (small wire mesh tube) is often placed to keep the artery open.
- Drug-eluting stents (DES): Coated with medication to prevent re-narrowing.
- Bare-metal stents (BMS): Used in select cases.
Why is it Done?
Angioplasty is performed to treat atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries), which can cause:
- Chest pain (angina) that does not improve with medication or lifestyle changes.
- Shortness of breath due to restricted blood flow.
- Heart attack, where angioplasty is performed as an emergency procedure to quickly open the artery and reduce heart damage.
Who Needs Angioplasty?
You may be a candidate if:
✔ Medications and lifestyle changes haven’t improved your condition.
✔ Chest pain (angina) is worsening.
✔ You’ve had a heart attack, and immediate intervention is required.
However, coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) may be recommended if you have multiple blockages or complex artery disease.
Best Cardiologists for Angioplasty in South Mumbai
Looking for expert angioplasty specialists in South Mumbai? Consult leading interventional cardiologists for routine and complex angioplasty procedures.