The heart is an essential part of the human body. As such, any medical procedure or surgery involving it may cause one to be nervous and concerned. One such procedure is angioplasty surgery. Let’s read up on it to help allay our fears and anxieties.
What is angioplasty surgery?
Angioplasty surgery is a medical procedure that doctors recommend when your coronary arteries are narrow or become blocked. The coronary arteries are the main blood vessels that deliver blood to the heart so it is important that they are always fully functioning.
Historically, angioplasties were performed using a balloon to widen blocked or narrowed coronary arteries. Nowadays, angioplasty surgery usually involves using a short-wire mesh tube called a stent, and inserting it into the artery. This stent is then left in place, allowing blood to flow freely through the arteries.
Why do we need it?
Our hearts need a constant supply of blood so it can run properly. Because of this, our coronary arteries are very important because they are responsible for supplying blood to our heart.
As we get older, our coronary arteries can narrow or harden. This is commonly referred to as atherosclerosis. Chest pain or angina can occur when blood flow to our hearts is insufficient. When medication proves to be ineffective in treating this, your doctor will recommend you undergo angioplasty surgery. In extreme cases, such as a heart attack, doctors can also recommend angioplasty surgery as an emergency treatment.
How does it work?
A local anaesthetic is used to carry out an angioplasty surgery. This means that you will be awake during the entire procedure. Through an incision in your wrist, groin, or arm, a tube called a catheter will be inserted. This tube will then be led to the artery using an x-ray video. When the tube is in position, a thin wire is then guided inside the tube, delivering a small balloon within the affected artery. This balloon will then be inflated to widen the artery. As the balloon inflates, any built-up fatty deposits are crushed, allowing more blood to flow through once the balloon deflates.
Modern angioplasty surgery will involve the use of a stent. The stent will be placed around the balloon before its insertion. As the balloon inflates, the stent does as well. The stent will remain in place within the artery as the balloon deflates and is removed, ensuring adequate blood flow to the heart.
