Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), also known as coronary angioplasty or balloon angioplasty, is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat narrowed or blocked coronary arteries, which are the blood vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle.
During a percutaneous coronary intervention:
Preparation: The patient is typically given local anesthesia, and a small incision is made in the groin or wrist to access the femoral or radial artery.
Insertion of Catheter: A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into the artery and guided through the blood vessels to the coronary arteries using X-ray guidance.
Angiography: Once the catheter reaches the coronary arteries, a contrast dye is injected through the catheter, and X-ray images (angiograms) are taken to visualize any blockages or narrowings in the arteries.
Balloon Angioplasty: If a significant blockage is identified, a balloon-tipped catheter is inserted into the narrowed artery and positioned across the blockage. The balloon is then inflated, compressing the plaque against the artery walls and widening the artery to improve blood flow.
Stent Placement: In many cases, a stent—a small, mesh-like tube—is placed in the artery to help keep it open after the balloon is deflated and removed. The stent acts as a scaffold, preventing the artery from collapsing or becoming blocked again.
Monitoring and Recovery: Throughout the procedure, the patient’s vital signs and heart function are monitored closely. After the intervention is complete, the catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to the insertion site to prevent bleeding. The patient is typically observed for a short period before being discharged.
Percutaneous coronary intervention is often performed as a treatment for angina (chest pain) or to improve blood flow to the heart in individuals with coronary artery disease. It can help alleviate symptoms, improve heart function, and reduce the risk of heart attack or other complications associated with blocked arteries.
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