Coronary Angioplasty and Stents
Coronary angioplasty and stent placement treat heart problems caused by blocked or narrowed arteries. At Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health, our team uses advanced techniques to open blocked arteries and improve blood flow to the heart. If you have chest pain or heart disease, these treatments can help. They can prevent heart attacks and improve your heart health. Our caring team is here to guide you through every step of the process, from diagnosis to recovery, ensuring you receive the best care possible.
Why Coronary Angioplasty and Stents are Necessary
Coronary artery disease (CAD) occurs when the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart, become narrowed or blocked by plaque. This plaque is made of cholesterol, calcium, and other substances. This narrowing restricts blood flow to the heart. It often causes chest pain (angina) and raises the risk of a heart attack.
Coronary angioplasty and stent placement are necessary when lifestyle changes or medications are no longer effective in managing CAD symptoms (or when a heart attack is imminent). During an angioplasty, a balloon widens the narrowed arteries, and a heart stent is often placed to keep the artery open. These procedures restore blood flow, ease chest pain, lower heart attack risk, and improve heart function.
The Heart Stent Procedure: What to Expect
Before coronary angioplasty, your doctor will run some tests. These include an electrocardiogram (ECG), blood tests, stress tests, or heart imaging. They will check the severity of your heart condition and will review your medical history and medications.
The procedure takes 1 to 2 hours. It is done under local anesthesia to numb the catheter insertion area, with mild sedation to help you relax. Here’s what you can expect:
Preparation:
- You’ll change into a hospital gown and lie on a procedure table.
- The insertion site (usually the groin or arm) will be cleaned and shaved.
- An intravenous (IV) line will be placed for fluids and medications.
Catheter Insertion:
- A small incision is made at the insertion site.
- X-ray imaging guides the catheter through the artery to the narrowed or blocked area.
Angioplasty and Stent Placement:
- A small balloon at the catheter’s tip is inflated to widen the artery.
- If necessary, a heart stent is placed to keep the artery open.
- The balloon and catheter are removed once the procedure is complete.
Following the procedure, your doctor will provide instructions for follow-up care to ensure your recovery and long-term heart health.
Risks and Complications of Coronary Angioplasty and Stents
Like any medical procedure, angioplasty and heart stent placement carry risks. These risks are generally low, and the benefits often outweigh the risks for patients with severe coronary artery disease.
Potential risks and complications include:
- Bleeding or bruising at the catheter insertion site.
- Allergic reaction to the contrast dye used during the procedure.
- Kidney problems due to the contrast dye.
- Artery damage or dissection (tearing of the artery wall).
- Blood clots or restenosis (re-narrowing of the artery).
- Heart attack or stroke (rare).
Your doctor will discuss these risks with you and take steps to minimize them. It’s important to follow all pre-procedure and post-procedure instructions carefully to reduce the risk of complications.
Recovery After Coronary Angioplasty and Stents
Recovery after angioplasty and stent placement varies by person. Most patients can return to regular activities within a week. Following your doctor’s advice is essential to ensure a smooth recovery. Some key guidelines include:
- Rest and limit physical activity for a few days after the procedure, avoiding heavy lifting for at least a week. Gradually increase activity as directed by your doctor.
- To prevent blood clots, take all prescribed medications, such as aspirin or clopidogrel, and follow your doctor’s instructions closely.
- Keep the insertion site clean and dry, and watch for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or drainage.
- Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled so your doctor can check your progress and determine if further tests are needed.
- Your doctor may recommend a cardiac rehabilitation program to help you recover and reduce the risk of future heart problems.
For the best possible recovery, follow all instructions from your physician and report any concerns to them.
Lifestyle Changes Post-Procedure
After coronary angioplasty and stent placement, making lifestyle changes is essential to maintain the benefits and prevent further heart issues. Consider these significant changes:
- Quit Smoking: Smoking increases heart disease risk and can cause the artery to narrow again. Quitting is crucial for heart health.
- Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet: Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit unhealthy fats, salt, and sugars to maintain a healthy weight.
- Exercise Regularly: Engage in physical activity like walking or swimming to lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol, and strengthen your heart.
- Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga to reduce stress, which can worsen heart disease.
- Control Other Health Conditions: Manage conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol with your doctor’s guidance.
- Attend Cardiac Rehabilitation: Participate in a program for supervised exercise and support to help you maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle.
Making these changes will help you maximize the benefits of your procedure and reduce future heart risks.
Contact Us for Heart Care
If you have questions about coronary angioplasty and stents, we can help. Our team at Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health can explain how these procedures can improve your heart health. We offer personalized care and expert guidance to ensure you receive the best treatment for your heart condition. Our experienced cardiologists are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule an appointment, get answers to your questions, or learn more about our heart health services. Your heart health is our priority, and we are here to help you live a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Proudly Serving: Brandon, Carrollwood, Land O’ Lakes, North Tampa, South Tampa, and Wesley Chapel.