Angioplasty

An angioplasty is a procedure used to open up arteries that are partially or totally blocked by a buildup of fats and cholesterol (plaque) inside an artery. This is usually done during a left heart catheterization or a peripheral arteriogram procedure where a small tube (similar to an IV) is inserted into the artery of the arm or groin. Then, a specialized catheter with a balloon on the tip is inserted through the IV and is passed to the area where the blocked artery is located. It is then inflated and opens up the artery so that blood flow is re-established.

Why you are having this procedure (symptoms/indications):

You might have an angioplasty done if you are having symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or leg pain that is felt to be due to a partially or totally blocked artery in your heart or legs.

Prep for the procedure:

There is very little preparation for this procedure. You will likely be asked not to eat or drink for 8 to 12 hours prior to the procedure. Also, you will need to arrange to have someone drive you home after the procedure.

What to expect:

Prior to the beginning of the procedure, you will be given a sedative which will make you feel relaxed and drowsy. However, you will still be able to be awoken if necessary. Then, the area where the catheter will be inserted is numbed with a local anesthetic. Then, the catheter is inserted and the procedure is performed.

Risks:

Complications from this procedure are rare, and the risk of death is very low. Possible risks include: (1) allergic reaction to the dye which can be treated with medicine; (2) damage to the kidneys from the dye; (3) irregular heart rhythms which can be treated with medicine; (4) bleeding can occur at the site where the catheter is inserted; (5) although uncommon, blood clots can form around the catheter or clumps of plaque can be knocked loose from the walls of the arteries during the procedure and can trigger a heart attack or a stroke

Post procedure instructions/limitations:

You will be asked to do no heavy lifting of greater than 5 pounds for approximately 1 week after the procedure due to possible bleeding from the site where the catheter was inserted. You will also be asked not to take a tub bath until the site where the catheter was inserted is healed; this will help you avoid infection. You can usually return to your normal activities over approximately 1 week.

When to call your cardiologist:

You should call your cardiologist immediately and/or return to the emergency department immediately if you experience acute onset of chest pain and/or shortness of breath or if you experience rapid swelling or bleeding at the site where the catheter was inserted.

Miscellaneous:

You should follow all the instructions that your healthcare provider gives you.

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