Coronary Angioplasty (PTCA)

Coronary Angioplasty, also known as Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), is a minimally invasive procedure used to open blocked or narrowed coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart. Reduced blood flow to the heart can cause chest pain (angina) and may lead to a heart attack. Angioplasty restores normal blood flow and helps protect the heart from further damage.

When Is Coronary Angioplasty Needed?

• Persistent or severe chest pain (angina)

• Shortness of breath due to heart blockage

• During or after a heart attack

• Significant artery blockage found on coronary angiography

• When medications alone are not effective

  How Is Coronary Angioplasty Performed?

• A thin catheter is inserted through an artery in the wrist or groin

• The catheter is guided to the blocked coronary artery

• A small balloon is inflated to widen the artery

• In most cases, a stent is placed to keep the artery open