Angioplasty is described as the approach of widening an obstructed or narrowed blood vessel in a mechanical procedure. If an individual requires the relief of artery blockage then they may proceed to undergo the effectiveness of this technique. According to the British Heart Foundation, it helps to improve your blood supply to the heart muscle and can help relieve angina symptoms.
The procedure is relatively straightforward and consists of fitting a catheter into an artery in the arm or groin. Following this, cardiac catheterisation will take place where an X-ray screening will be performed. The catheter will then be directed into a coronary artery where the blocked section lies. As the balloon on the catheter is gently inflated, the fatty tissue in the artery will allow the blood to flow more consistently.
Once done the catheter will be deflated and a stent, which is present within the catheter, will stay inside the artery to keep the area expanded. There are certain precautions that will be recommended following an angioplasty procedure, such as avoiding driving and heavy lifting for a week. Regular doctor visits are recommended to see how effective the procedure was, but generally the effectiveness of angioplasty is relatively successful.
Depending entirely on the seriousness and type of angioplasty performed, the effectiveness is varied. If an artery is only narrowed, then the procedure will often be very successful with no further problems. However, if an artery was blocked then you may receive some side effects such as pain, discomfort and blood clots. Avoiding smoking is recommended and those who smoke following an angioplasty may be at risk of the procedure being unsuccessful.
Overall, the percentage and success rate of patients who have gone through an angioplasty procedure is 90-100%. For patients who have a more serious artery blockage, then further work may have to be done in order to prevent any further complications occurring. Angioplasty very rarely affects the day-to-day activities of an individual, making it a helpful surgery for anyone suffering with an obstructed or narrowed blood vessel.
If the length of the artery being treated with angioplasty is shorter than 5cm, then the procedure is more likely to be effective. However, if the artery is longer in length with a larger blockage then the procedure may be more difficult to undergo. Despite these facts, the majority of angioplasty procedures are greatly effective and patients will be able to enjoy a happy, comfortable lifestyle following it.
