angioplastica

Angioplasty is a medical procedure used to open narrowed or blocked arteries. It is most commonly performed on the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle, but can also be used on arteries in other parts of the body, such as the legs or neck. The procedure is also known as percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) when performed on coronary arteries.

The procedure typically involves inserting a long, thin tube called a catheter into a blood vessel, usually in the groin or arm. The catheter is guided to the blocked artery using X-ray imaging. Once in position, a small balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated. This balloon expands the artery, compressing the plaque that is causing the blockage and widening the passageway for blood flow.

In many cases, a small mesh tube called a stent is then deployed at the site of the blockage. The stent acts as a scaffold to keep the artery open. Stents can be bare metal or coated with medication (drug-eluting stents) to help prevent the artery from narrowing again.

Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure, meaning it involves small incisions and a relatively quick recovery time compared to traditional surgery. It is often used to treat conditions such as angina (chest pain) and myocardial infarction (heart attack) by restoring blood flow to the heart. While effective, angioplasty is not a cure for atherosclerosis, the underlying disease process that causes plaque buildup. Lifestyle changes and medication are often recommended alongside the procedure.