Coronary angioplasty

Coronary Angioplasty Summary

Coronary angioplasty is a critical surgical intervention for severe cardiac issues, often administered shortly after heart attacks or cardiac arrests. Timely procedures significantly reduce risk factors and mortality rates. This surgery aims to improve blood supply by opening coronary arteries, ensuring proper oxygenation throughout the body. Also known as percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), it involves inserting a coronary artery stent for sustained blood flow.

How Is Coronary Angioplasty Performed?

During a cardiac angioplasty, anesthesia is administered for comfort, and a small incision is made in the arm or groin. A catheter with a balloon-like tip is gently inserted into the heart arteries and guided to the blockages using X-ray imaging. The balloon is inflated to widen the arteries, clearing plaque buildup. This restores proper blood flow, and in some cases, a stent machine may be used post-surgery to maintain heart function.

Risk Factors of Coronary Angioplasty Surgery

Coronary angioplasty surgery carries certain risks and complications post-procedure, including:

  • Low risk of stroke
  • Breathing problems
  • Damage to blood vessels, valves, or arteries
  • Heart rate irregularities (arrhythmia)
  • Blood clotting (thrombosis)
  • Bleeding at the surgery site
  • Allergic reactions to medications or anesthesia
  • Bruising at the incision site, particularly troublesome for diabetics.
  • Kidney damage
  • Possible re-narrowing of arteries
  • Bruising, scarring, or clotting due to stent insertion
  • Minor risk of heart attack, especially with a stent
  • Heart infections
  • Bleeding at the surgery site
  • Artery blockage with the stent

Types Of Coronary Angioplasty

Coronary angioplasty is a vital treatment for cardiac diseases, with several methods used in India:

Balloon Angioplasty:

  • A catheter with a small balloon tip is inserted into arterial valves to keep blood vessels open, improving blood flow from the heart to the body.

Stent Placement:

  • A small tube-like stent is inserted into arterial walls to hold blood vessels open, enhancing blood flow.

Rotablation:

  • A specialized catheter attached to the coronary artery's apex grinds plaque and waste materials, improving blood flow and heart health.

Atherectomy:

  • A catheter resembling a hollow cylinder with balloon ends is inserted into arteries, inflating to widen blood vessels and increase blood flow.

These methods aim to alleviate cardiac conditions and promote heart health.

Preparations Before Coronary Angioplasty Surgery:

Before undergoing coronary angioplasty surgery, it's essential to:

  • Discuss your health condition thoroughly with cardiac surgeons and healthcare experts to minimize risks and complications.
  • Quit excessive smoking, caffeine, alcohol, and harmful drugs.
  • Consult with your doctor regarding the continuation of medications and supplements.
  • Provide information about your medical history, including any cardiac issues or allergies.
  • Follow surgeon's instructions carefully.

Home Care After Coronary Angioplasty Surgery:

After returning home post-surgery:

  • Quit smoking, alcohol, and drugs; practice yoga, breathing exercises, and regular workouts.
  • Maintain a healthy diet, limit fat-containing foods, and avoid junk foods.
  • Control chronic conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.

Coronary Angioplasty Cost in India:

  • The estimated cost ranges from $2000 to $4000 USD (approximately INR 158,609 to 317,218), depending on factors such as surgical technique, hospital, surgeon's experience, and post-operative care.