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Angioplasty is a medical procedure used to treat narrowed or blocked arteries, typically in the heart or legs. The primary goal of angioplasty is to restore blood flow to the affected area by widening the narrowed artery. The procedure is often performed using a balloon catheter, which is inserted into the artery through a small incision in the groin or wrist. The balloon is then inflated to compress the plaque buildup against the artery wall, effectively widening the artery lumen.

Angioplasty can be performed as a standalone procedure or in combination with other treatments, such as stent placement. Stents are small, mesh-like devices that are inserted into the artery to keep it open after the balloon has been deflated. This can help prevent the artery from narrowing again.

Angioplasty is commonly used to treat coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and other conditions that cause artery narrowing. It is typically performed on an outpatient basis, with patients going home the same day as the procedure. Recovery time varies depending on the location of the procedure and the patient's overall health, but most patients can return to normal activities within a few days to a week.

While angioplasty is generally considered a safe and effective procedure, it is not without risks. Complications can include bleeding, blood clots, and damage to the artery or surrounding tissue. In some cases, angioplasty may not be successful in opening the artery, and additional procedures may be required.

Angioplasty is typically recommended for patients with significant artery narrowing that is causing symptoms, such as chest pain or leg pain. The decision to perform angioplasty is made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the patient's overall health, the severity of the artery narrowing, and the presence of any other medical conditions.