Understanding Angioplasty: A Life-Saving Procedure Explained

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death globally, and timely medical intervention can often make the difference between life and death. Among the many life-saving procedures available today, angioplasty stands out as a minimally invasive yet highly effective method of restoring blood flow to the heart. If you or a loved one has been advised to undergo angioplasty, understanding what it entails can ease your worries and help you make informed decisions.

In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about angioplasty—what it is, why it's done, the types, the procedure, risks, recovery, and why Sarvesh Health City is the best cardiology hospital in Hisar to trust for this critical treatment.

1. What is Angioplasty?

Angioplasty, also known as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), is a non-surgical procedure used to open narrowed or blocked coronary arteries—the blood vessels that supply blood to your heart muscle. The goal of angioplasty is to restore proper blood flow, reduce symptoms like chest pain (angina), and prevent heart attacks.

This is typically done by inserting a tiny balloon into the blocked artery and inflating it, which helps widen the artery. Often, a stent (a small wire mesh tube) is placed to keep the artery open long-term.

2. Why Is Angioplasty Done?

Angioplasty is primarily performed for patients diagnosed with coronary artery disease (CAD), where arteries are narrowed due to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis). It can also be a life-saving intervention during a heart attack.

Here are some common reasons your cardiologist might recommend angioplasty:

• Persistent chest pain (angina) despite medication

• Shortness of breath during mild exertion

• Abnormal stress test results

• Acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) to quickly restore blood flow

At Sarvesh Health City, Hisar, we evaluate each case thoroughly using advanced imaging and diagnostics to determine whether angioplasty is the right option for you.

3. Types of Angioplasty Procedures

There are different forms of angioplasty depending on the specific heart condition:

a) Balloon Angioplasty

A small balloon is inflated at the site of the blockage to open the artery. This is usually followed by stent placement.

b) Stent Placement

A stent, often coated with medication (drug-eluting stent), is inserted to keep the artery open long-term and prevent future blockages.

c) Coronary Atherectomy

In some cases, if the plaque is too hard or calcified, it may need to be removed or shaved away before angioplasty is performed.

4. What Happens Before the Procedure?

Before undergoing angioplasty at Sarvesh Health City, your cardiologist will:

• Conduct a complete physical examination

• Review your medical history

• Perform tests such as ECG, echocardiogram, blood tests, and coronary angiography

You’ll be advised to fast for a few hours, and in most cases, the procedure is planned, although it can also be done as an emergency during a heart attack.

5. The Angioplasty Procedure: Step-by-Step

Here’s how the angioplasty procedure typically unfolds:

Step 1: Local Anesthesia

You’ll be given a local anesthetic, and a mild sedative may be used to relax you.

Step 2: Catheter Insertion

A thin, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted through an artery in the groin or wrist and guided to the heart using real-time X-ray imaging.

Step 3: Balloon Inflation

Once at the site of blockage, a small balloon at the catheter's tip is inflated, compressing the plaque against the artery walls.

Step 4: Stent Placement

A stent may then be placed to hold the artery open permanently.

Step 5: Removal and Closure

The catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to prevent bleeding. The patient is then monitored in a recovery room.

6. Recovery After Angioplasty

Immediate Recovery

You’ll likely stay in the hospital for one to two days. You’ll be monitored for:

• Heart rhythm abnormalities

• Bleeding at the insertion site

• Any signs of complications

At Home

• Avoid strenuous activity for a few days

• Take medications as prescribed, such as blood thinners

• Maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine

• Quit smoking and manage stress

Your care team at Sarvesh Health City will provide a detailed recovery and cardiac rehabilitation plan tailored to your condition.

7. Risks and Complications of Angioplasty

While angioplasty is generally safe, it's important to be aware of potential risks:

• Bleeding or bruising at the catheter site

• Re-narrowing (restenosis) of the artery

• Blood clots or heart attack (rare)

• Kidney damage from contrast dye (especially in diabetic patients)

Our interventional cardiologists at Sarvesh Health City take all necessary precautions to minimize risks and ensure a safe recovery.

8. Success Rates and Long-Term Outcomes

The success rate of angioplasty is over 90% in most patients. Long-term outcomes improve dramatically when combined with:

• Lifestyle modifications

• Regular follow-ups

• Medication adherence

Stent technology, especially drug-eluting stents, has significantly reduced the risk of re-blockage, ensuring longer-lasting results.

9. Lifestyle Changes After Angioplasty

Getting an angioplasty doesn’t mean you’re cured of heart disease. In fact, it’s a wake-up call to make lasting changes:

• Switch to a heart-healthy diet

• Exercise regularly (under medical guidance)

• Manage blood pressure and diabetes

• Take your heart medications on time

• Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol

At Sarvesh Health City, we offer holistic cardiac care, including nutrition counseling, physiotherapy, and mental health support to guide your lifestyle transformation.

10. Why Choose Sarvesh Health City – Best Cardiology Hospital in Hisar?

When it comes to heart health, choosing the right hospital and cardiologist can save lives. Here’s why Sarvesh Health City is considered the best cardiology hospital in Hisar:

• State-of-the-art Cath Lab for advanced angioplasty and stenting

• Highly experienced interventional cardiologists

• 24x7 emergency cardiac services

• Comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation program

• Advanced diagnostic tools: ECG, ECHO, TMT, CT angiography

• Patient-first philosophy with personalized care

• Transparent pricing and insurance support

We ensure that every patient who walks through our doors receives world-class cardiac care with compassion and expertise.

Conclusion: Angioplasty Can Save Lives—Don’t Delay

Angioplasty is more than a procedure—it’s a second chance at life. Whether it’s relieving chest pain, stopping a heart attack, or preventing future cardiac events, this minimally invasive technique has transformed the landscape of cardiovascular care.

At Sarvesh Health City, we combine cutting-edge technology, experienced cardiologists, and patient-focused care to offer the best angioplasty treatment in Hisar. If you or a loved one is dealing with heart disease, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen—early diagnosis and timely intervention can make all the difference.

Book your consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier heart and a better life.