Coronary Angiography and Angioplasty
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- / Dr. Ravi Gupta
Coronary Angiography and Angioplasty
Coronary angiography and angioplasty are interrelated procedures used to diagnose and treat coronary artery disease (CAD). These procedures help visualize and manage blockages or narrowing in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle.
Coronary Angiography
Purpose
Diagnosis: To visualize and assess the extent and location of blockages or narrowing in the coronary arteries.
Preparation
Consent: Obtain informed consent from the patient.
Pre-Procedure Evaluation: Review medical history, perform necessary tests (e.g., ECG, blood tests).
Procedure
Access: Typically performed through a catheter inserted into the femoral artery (in the groin) or radial artery (in the wrist).
Contrast Injection: A contrast dye is injected into the coronary arteries through the catheter.
Imaging: X-ray images are taken as the contrast dye flows through the coronary arteries, highlighting any blockages or narrowing.
Post-Procedure Care
Monitoring: Observe for any complications and ensure the catheter insertion site is properly managed.
Follow-Up: Review imaging results with the patient and discuss further management or treatment options.
Angioplasty (Percutaneous Coronary Intervention - PCI)
Purpose
Treatment: To relieve blockages or narrowing in the coronary arteries, improving blood flow to the heart muscle.
Preparation
Assessment: After coronary angiography, if a significant blockage is found, angioplasty may be performed.
Anticoagulation: Administration of anticoagulants to prevent blood clots during the procedure.
Procedure
Access: Similar to coronary angiography, performed through the femoral or radial artery.
Balloon Inflation: A catheter with a deflated balloon at its tip is guided to the blockage. The balloon is then inflated to widen the artery and compress the plaque against the arterial wall.
Stent Placement: Often, a stent (a small mesh tube) is deployed to keep the artery open and prevent re-narrowing. Drug-eluting stents release medication to reduce the risk of restenosis.
Post-Procedure Care
Monitoring: Continuous monitoring for complications and ensuring proper recovery.
Medications: Dual antiplatelet therapy (aspirin and a P2Y12 inhibitor) is typically prescribed to prevent clot formation on the stent.
Lifestyle Changes: Recommendations for lifestyle modifications, including diet, exercise, and smoking cessation.
Both coronary angiography and angioplasty are crucial tools in managing coronary artery disease, improving blood flow to the heart muscle, and enhancing overall cardiac health.