Understanding Angioplasty: When, Why, and How It's Done

Understanding Angioplasty: When, Why, and How It's Done

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the leading causes of heart attacks and other serious cardiac complications. One of the most effective ways to treat CAD and restore proper blood flow to the heart is through angioplasty, a minimally invasive procedure that has saved countless lives across the globe.

In this article, Dr. Sushant Mishra, an acclaimed interventional cardiologist with expertise in advanced cardiac procedures, explains what angioplasty is, when it's needed, and how it is performed to provide safe and lasting relief from blocked arteries.

What is Angioplasty?

Angioplasty, also known as Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), is a non-surgical procedure used to open narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. It is performed using a thin tube called a catheter, which is guided to the affected artery. A small balloon is then inflated to widen the artery, and in most cases, a stent (a tiny mesh tube) is inserted to keep the artery open.

This procedure helps restore blood flow to the heart, alleviating symptoms like chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and reducing the risk of a heart attack.

When is Angioplasty Needed?

Dr. Sushant Mishra emphasizes that angioplasty is not for everyone with heart disease. It is generally recommended in the following cases:

Stable Angina: When medications aren't enough to control chest pain caused by narrowed arteries.
Unstable Angina: New or worsening chest pain that could indicate a heart attack risk.
Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction): Emergency angioplasty is often performed to quickly open a blocked artery and limit heart damage.
Failed Stress Test: When diagnostic tests show poor blood flow to the heart muscle.
Severe Narrowing of One or More Arteries: Especially when the blockage is accessible and suitable for stenting.

How is Angioplasty Performed?

The procedure typically follows these steps:

The patient is given a mild sedative. Local anesthesia is applied where the catheter will be inserted (usually the wrist or groin).
A catheter is inserted and guided through the blood vessels to the blocked coronary artery using X-ray imaging.
A small balloon at the catheter's tip is inflated at the blockage site to compress the plaque against the artery walls.
A drug-eluting stent is usually deployed at the site to prevent re-narrowing of the artery.
The procedure takes 30–90 minutes. Most patients are discharged the next day and can return to normal activities in a few days.

Why Choose Angioplasty?

Dr. Mishra explains the key benefits of angioplasty:

Minimally invasive: No need for open-heart surgery
Faster recovery: Most patients resume activities within a week
Immediate symptom relief: Rapid improvement in chest pain and breathing
Emergency lifesaver: Critical in acute heart attack situations
Low complication rate: Especially in experienced hands

Are There Any Risks?

Like all medical procedures, angioplasty carries some risks, including:

Artery re-narrowing (restenosis)
Bleeding at the catheter site
Blood clots or stent thrombosis
Rarely, heart attack or stroke during the procedure

However, under the expert care of a trained specialist like Dr. Sushant Mishra, the risks are minimal and carefully managed.

Why Trust Dr. Sushant Mishra for Angioplasty?

Dr. Sushant Mishra is a leading interventional cardiologist trained at PGIMER Chandigarh and AIIMS New Delhi. With years of experience and hundreds of successful angioplasties, he is known for his:

Expertise in complex coronary interventions
Use of advanced imaging and techniques like IVUS and zero-contrast PCI
Compassionate, patient-centered care
Trusted reputation across Delhi-NCR and Haryana
Contribution to national and international cardiology guidelines and publications

Personalized Care You Can Rely On

Dr. Mishra combines world-class expertise with a strong belief in clear communication and individualized care. Every patient’s treatment plan is tailored to their medical condition, lifestyle, and long-term heart health goals.

Conclusion

Angioplasty is a life-saving procedure that can dramatically improve heart function and quality of life. If you or your loved one is experiencing chest pain or has been diagnosed with coronary artery disease, it’s important to consult a trusted expert.

Dr. Sushant Mishra offers comprehensive cardiac care, from diagnosis to advanced intervention, ensuring safety, success, and support at every step.