What is angioplasty?
Angioplasty is a medical procedure used to open blocked or narrowed blood vessels that supply blood to the heart muscle.
It is also called percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) .
The procedure can be done in an emergency setting such as a heart attack or as elective surgery if a healthcare provider strongly suspects heart disease.
Angioplasty can restore blood flow to the heart muscle without open-heart surgery.
During angioplasty, a long, thin tube called a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel and guided to the blocked coronary artery.
The catheter has a tiny balloon at its tip, which is inflated at the narrowed area of the heart artery.
This presses the plaque or blood clot against the sides of the artery, making more room for blood flow.
In most modern angioplasty procedures, a short wire mesh tube called a stent is also inserted into the artery during the procedure to keep it open permanently and allow blood to flow more freely.
Angioplasty is done to restore coronary artery blood flow when the narrowed artery is in a place that can be reached in this manner.
The procedure is performed through an artery in the groin, arm, or wrist area, and general anesthesia is not needed
Recovery from angioplasty usually takes a week or less, and complete recovery can be achieved within six hours after the procedure.
However, angioplasty does not cure the cause of the blockage in the arteries, and the arteries may become narrow again.
Therefore, it is important to follow a heart-healthy diet, exercise, stop smoking (if you smoke), and take medications as prescribed by the healthcare provider to prevent the recurrence of the blockage.
How is angioplasty performed?
Angioplasty is a procedure used to open blocked or narrowed coronary arteries, which are the main blood vessels supplying the heart.
It is also known as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)
Here is a step-by-step overview of how angioplasty is performed:
1. Preparation: Before the procedure, you will undergo an assessment to ensure that the operation is possible and to discuss any concerns with your cardiologist.
This may include blood tests and a general health check.
In some cases, an angiogram may be performed beforehand to determine the location of the blockages.
2. Anesthesia: Angioplasty is typically performed using local anesthesia, which means you will be awake during the procedure.
You may be given a sedative to help you relax
Insertion of catheter: A long, thin tube called a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel, usually in the groin, arm, or wrist area.
The catheter is then guided to the blocked coronary artery.
4. Balloon inflation: The catheter has a tiny balloon at its tip, which is positioned at the narrowed area of the heart artery.
The balloon is then inflated, pressing the plaque or blood clot against the sides of the artery and widening the artery to improve blood flow.
5. Stent placement: In many cases, a stent is inserted during the angioplasty procedure.
6. A stent is a small wire mesh tube that helps prop the artery open and prevent it from narrowing again.
7. The stent may be coated with medication to further promote blood flow (drug-eluting stent) ..
8. Recovery: After the procedure, the catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to the insertion site to prevent bleeding.
9. You may need to lie flat for a few hours to allow the blood vessel to heal.
Most people can go home the same day or the next day after angioplasty.
It's important to note that the specific details of the angioplasty procedure may vary depending on your condition and the practices of your doctor.
It is best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized information and guidance.
What are the benefits of angioplasty?
Angioplasty is a medical procedure used to widen blocked or narrowed arteries, such as the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart.
The procedure involves using a balloon to stretch open the narrowed or blocked artery, and in most cases, a stent is inserted to keep the artery open permanently.
The benefits of angioplasty include:
· Relief of symptoms: Angioplasty can improve symptoms of blocked arteries, such as chest pain and shortness of breath..
· Improved blood flow: In most cases, the blood flow through the coronary arteries improves after an angioplasty, allowing the organ that the artery reaches to get a better supply of blood.
· Reduced damage to the heart: Having an angioplasty within the first hours after a heart attack may reduce the risk of complications and lower the risk of heart failure, other complications, and death..
However, it is important to note that angioplasty does not halt the spread of atherosclerosis and the damage it causes.
It also does not reduce the chances of having a future heart attack or improve survival.
For these long-term benefits, aggressive medical therapy, such as heart-protecting drugs and lifestyle interventions, is needed.
Who is a candidate for angioplasty?
Candidates for angioplasty include individuals who meet the following criteria:
1. Significant narrowing or blockage of a coronary artery: Angioplasty is commonly performed to treat coronary artery disease (CAD) caused by the narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries..
2. Atherosclerosis: People diagnosed with atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries, may be candidates for angioplasty..
3. Severe angina (chest pain): Individuals who experience severe angina, a symptom of reduced blood flow to the heart, may be considered for angioplasty.
4. Heart attack: Angioplasty may be performed as an emergency procedure for individuals who have had a heart attack..
Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that involves using a catheter-guided balloon to open a narrowed coronary artery. In some cases, a stent (a wire-mesh tube) may be placed in the artery to help keep it open .
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if angioplasty is the appropriate treatment option based on individual circumstances.
What are the risks associated with angioplasty?
Angioplasty is a procedure to improve blood flow in coronary arteries that have become narrow or blocked. Although it is a less invasive way to open clogged arteries than bypass surgery, it still carries some risks.
The most common risks associated with angioplasty include:
· Bleeding, clotting, or bruising at the point of insertion.
· Scar tissue or blood clots forming in the stent.
· An irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia.
· Damage to a blood vessel, heart valve, or artery.
· Re-narrowing of the artery.
More serious complications are less common but can include:
· Heart attack, stroke, or death.
· Damage to the artery where the sheath was inserted.
· Allergic reaction to the contrast agent used during the procedure.
· Excessive bleeding requiring a blood transfusion
· Kidney damage, especially in people who have preexisting kidney problems.
· Infection.
The risk of having complications depends on various factors such as age, overall health, preexisting conditions, and whether the procedure was planned or emergency treatment.
Patients with certain risk factors such as increasing age, shock, left main coronary artery lesion, and renal disease may warrant more careful observation following their procedure.
However, the risk of serious problems is small, and angioplasty is generally considered a safe procedure..
How long does it take to recover from angioplasty?
The recovery time after angioplasty can vary depending on the individual and the specific circumstances of the procedure. Here is a summary of the information from the search results:
· NHS: If you had a planned (non-emergency) coronary angioplasty, you should be able to return to work after a week. However, if you've had an emergency angioplasty following a heart attack, it may take several weeks or months before you fully recover and can return to work.
· St Vincent's Heart Health: It generally takes most people a couple of weeks to start returning to their normal activities after angioplasty/stenting. Before leaving the hospital, you'll be given detailed instructions for exercise, medications, follow-up appointments, ongoing wound care, and resuming normal activities.
· My Health Alberta: After angioplasty, you can do light activities around the house, but avoid anything strenuous until your doctor says it's okay. This may be for several days. Each person recovers at a different pace, so the recovery time can vary.
· Florida Premier Cardio: For a non-emergency coronary stent procedure, the recovery time is typically around a week. However, an emergency procedure may require a longer recovery time.
· VENAS Vascular Specialists: The average recovery period for individuals undergoing a minimally invasive angioplasty procedure is two weeks. It can take anywhere from six to eight weeks to fully recover.
· Abbott India: The general angioplasty recovery time is about two weeks, but this can vary based on the individual's condition.
Based on the information from these sources, it can be concluded that the recovery time after angioplasty can range from a week to several weeks, depending on the individual and the specific circumstances of the procedure. It is important to follow the instructions and guidance provided by your healthcare team for a successful recovery.
What is the cost of angioplasty?
The cost of angioplasty can vary depending on the location and the specific procedure. In the United States, the average cost of a typical angioplasty is $32,200 .
However, the cost can range from $29,300 to $115,600 depending on the location within the US .
In other countries, the cost of angioplasty can be significantly lower. For example, in the Netherlands, the cost is $6,400, and in Switzerland, it is $7,400 .
In India, the average cost of an angioplasty procedure is approximately 1.2 lakhs to 1.6 lakhs .
A study found that after five years, the average total cost of angioplasty was $81,790 in the US .
However, the total medical cost of angioplasty was 95% that of surgery after five years ($56,225 vs. $58,889, respectively) .
The cost of angioplasty can vary depending on the location, hospital, and specific procedure.
Can medical tourists receive angioplasty in other countries?
Yes, medical tourists can receive angioplasty in other countries. Medical tourism is an industry that is established in many countries around the world, and patients generally seek medical care abroad for one of two reasons: either they do not have access to a particular treatment, or they cannot afford it in their home country.
Patients can travel to any country in the world to receive medical treatment such as Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, India, and Canada.
European citizens, under specific circumstances, have rights to receive medical care in other EU countries.
However, it is important to note that medical tourism can leave home country physicians in problematic positions, as medical tourists often need follow-up when they return home.
What are the top destinations for medical tourism for angioplasty?
The top destinations for medical tourism for angioplasty include:
1. India: India has become a popular destination for medical tourism, offering high-end surgeries at affordable prices. It specializes in inexpensive bypass surgeries and other high-end medical procedures.
2. Thailand: Thailand has long been recognized as one of the best medical tourism destinations in the world. It offers low healthcare costs and excellent service for expats. Bangkok, in particular, is home to renowned medical facilities.
3. Mexico: Mexico is known for its affordable healthcare and is a popular choice for medical tourists. It offers a range of medical procedures, including angioplasty, at lower costs compared to many other countries..
4. Turkey: Turkey is regarded as one of the top destinations for medical tourism worldwide. It offers a combination of low cost and high-quality medical care, making it an attractive option for patients seeking angioplasty.
5. Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Dubai has emerged as a leading medical tourism destination in the Arab region. It boasts world-class hospitals and highly skilled doctors, making it an appealing choice for patients seeking angioplasty.
These destinations have established themselves as medical tourism hubs due to their quality healthcare facilities, experienced medical professionals, and cost-effectiveness. It is important for individuals considering medical tourism to thoroughly research and consult with healthcare providers to ensure they receive the best possible care.
How can medical tourists cover the costs of angioplasty and travel?
Medical tourists can cover the costs of angioplasty and travel through various means, including:
1. International Health Insurance: This type of insurance plan will typically afford you with worldwide coverage, allowing you to travel to any country in the world to receive medical treatment such as Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, or India.
2. Medical Tourism: Medical tourism involves traveling to another country to obtain healthcare, including dental and cosmetic treatments, which could save you money. Depending on where you travel, you can save at least 20% on your healthcare costs, and in many destinations in Asia, the savings can be more than half of what you’d pay at home..
3. European Health Insurance Card: For EU citizens, health services for tourists are funded variously through the European Health Insurance Card for occasional or emergency treatment within the EU..
4. Fundraising: Patients can also raise funds through crowdfunding platforms such as GoFundMe to cover the costs of medical treatment and travel..
It's important to note that medical tourists should always check with their doctor before booking a medical tourism trip. Additionally, patients should research the quality of healthcare in the destination country and ensure that the healthcare provider is accredited internationally..
HOME
