If you have a buildup of plaque — a waxy, fatty substance — in one or more of your arteries, the expert interventional cardiologists at Tanner Heart Care may recommend angioplasty and stenting to open the blockage and improve blood flow.

Without timely intervention, a blockage can limit your heart's ability to receive oxygen-rich blood, potentially leading to a heart attack.

What to expect during the procedure

During an angioplasty, your doctor inserts a thin tube called a catheter, along with a guidewire, through a blood vessel in your groin or arm to reach the blockage. The catheter has a small balloon at its tip.

Once in position, the balloon is inflated to compress plaque against the artery wall and widen the artery. In many cases, your doctor will also place a stent, a small mesh tube that remains in the artery to help keep it open and support healthy blood flow long after the procedure is complete.

Angioplasty and stenting are minimally invasive procedures that do not require open-heart surgery. A mild sedative and local anesthetic help keep you comfortable throughout treatment.

If you are experiencing a heart attack, angioplasty and stenting can quickly restore blood flow and reduce damage to the heart muscle. Tanner also uses these procedures to treat other vascular conditions, including peripheral artery disease (PAD).

Benefits of angioplasty and stenting

Angioplasty and stenting can help:

• Improve blood flow to the heart
• Reduce chest pain and other symptoms caused by blocked arteries
• Lower the risk of heart attack
• Restore circulation more quickly than many surgical approaches
• Support long-term artery function with the placement of a stent

For some patients, stenting performed during angioplasty can help reduce the likelihood of the artery narrowing again in the treated area.

Angioplasty and Stenting Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recovery time after an angioplasty?
Most patients recover within a few days, but your doctor will provide specific guidance based on your condition.

Are there any risks associated with angioplasty?
As with any procedure, there are some risks, but your healthcare team will take every precaution to minimize them.

How effective is angioplasty in treating blocked arteries?
Angioplasty is highly effective in restoring blood flow and reducing the risk of heart attacks.

Do I need to make lifestyle changes after angioplasty?
Yes, adopting heart-healthy habits like a balanced diet and regular exercise can improve the success of the procedure and boost overall heart health.

What is the difference between angioplasty and stenting?
Angioplasty involves inflating a balloon to widen the artery, while stenting involves placing a small mesh tube to keep the artery open.