What to Know About Angioplasty

How is it performed?

Angioplasty involves inserting a catheter, or a small tube with a balloon on the end, into the artery through an access site, either the femoral artery near the top of the thigh or the radial artery at the base of the wrist. The catheter is advanced to the area of narrowing in the artery. The balloon is then inflated, compressing the plaque or cholesterol buildup and making more room for blood flow. After deflating the balloon, the catheter is removed.

Sometimes, the artery needs greater support, and a stent, or small mesh coil, will be placed. This is done by attaching the stent to the balloon. When the balloon is inflated in the area of narrowing, it forces the stent to expand, holding the artery open. It stays in place after the catheter is removed. This decreases the need for emergency surgery and the likelihood of the artery re-narrowing.

Why might my physician order it?

The most obvious reason for an angioplasty would be when an acute blockage causes an acute heart attack. However, other common instances would be if a stress test suggests there is inadequate blood flow to a portion of the heart or if you are experiencing symptoms such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath or abnormal heart rhythms.

How long is recovery?

Recovery depends on the access site used. If the femoral artery is used, you must lay flat for two to six hours after the procedure and typically stay overnight. Once discharged, you can’t lift, bend or drive for three days. Healing is much quicker with the radial artery. You can walk immediately after the procedure and are often discharged home earlier — even sometimes the same day. Though you should not push, pull or lift for a few days, you can resume most of your normal daily activities.

Angioplasty and other advanced procedures are performed at Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital’s state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization lab, ensuring you receive the best and most responsive heart care possible, right in St. Charles County.

Michael Missler, DO, is an interventional cardiologist with BJC Medical Group and is on staff at Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital and Progress West Hospital. You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Missler by calling 636.928.WELL.