Pallolaajennushoidot
Pallolaajennushoidot, also known as balloon angioplasty, are a minimally invasive medical procedure used to widen narrowed or blocked arteries. This condition, often caused by atherosclerosis or the buildup of plaque, can restrict blood flow to vital organs and limbs, leading to symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or pain in the legs. The procedure typically involves inserting a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into an artery, usually in the groin or arm, and guiding it to the site of the blockage. Once in place, a small, uninflated balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated. This expansion compresses the plaque against the artery wall, thereby widening the vessel and restoring normal blood flow. After the artery is dilated, the balloon is deflated and removed along with the catheter. In many cases, a stent, a small mesh tube, is deployed at the site of the blockage to help keep the artery open. Pallolaajennushoidot are commonly used to treat coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and other conditions affecting blood vessels. While generally safe, potential risks include bleeding at the insertion site, blood clots, or damage to the artery. The recovery time is usually short, with most patients able to return to normal activities within a few days.