What is Angioplasty?
Angioplasty is a medical procedure used to open blocked or narrowed arteries. It involves the insertion of a small balloon or stent into the affected blood vessel to widen it and restore blood flow to the heart, brain, or other organs.
Types of Angioplasty
- Balloon Angioplasty: This involves inflating a balloon at the site of blockage to widen the artery.
- Stent Placement: A mesh-like tube called a stent is placed in the artery to keep it open.
Benefits of Angioplasty
Angioplasty can improve symptoms of conditions like angina, reduce the risk of heart attack, and improve quality of life for patients with blocked arteries.
Case Studies
John, a 55-year-old man, underwent angioplasty after experiencing chest pain. The procedure relieved his symptoms and improved his heart function.
Statistics
According to the American Heart Association, over 1 million angioplasty procedures are performed in the United States each year.
