angioplastiky

Angioplasty is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to open narrowed or weakened arteries, primarily to restore blood flow in obstructed coronary arteries. The technique is commonly employed to treat coronary artery disease (CAD), where plaque buildup restricts blood flow to the heart muscle, potentially leading to chest pain (angina) or heart attacks. Angioplasty is often performed alongside the insertion of a stent, a small mesh tube that helps keep the artery open.

The procedure begins with the insertion of a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into an artery, usually in the groin or wrist, and guided through the blood vessels to the affected area using fluoroscopy, a real-time X-ray imaging technique. Once the catheter reaches the narrowed section, a small balloon at its tip is inflated to compress the plaque against the artery walls, widening the passage. In many cases, a stent is deployed to maintain the artery’s openness. Modern stents are often coated with drugs to further reduce the risk of restenosis, the re-narrowing of the artery over time.

Angioplasty is typically performed under local anesthesia, with the patient conscious but sedated. Recovery is generally quick, with most patients discharged within a few hours. Complications, while rare, can include bleeding, blood clots, or damage to the artery. Long-term success depends on lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing conditions like hypertension or diabetes.

The procedure has significantly improved since its development in the 1970s, becoming safer and more effective. It remains a standard treatment for certain cardiovascular conditions, offering a less invasive alternative to open-heart surgery for many patients. However, it is not suitable for everyone, and its use is determined based on individual medical history and the severity of the blockage.