General info: Angioplasty, cardiac stent procedure

• Pre-procedure preparation:Before the angioplasty, your healthcare team will provide instructions regarding fasting requirements, medications to be taken or avoided, and any necessary laboratory tests. You may be asked to refrain from eating or drinking for a certain period before the procedure.
• Arrival and admission:You will be admitted to the hospital or a specialized cardiac center for the procedure. Upon arrival, you will be taken to a preparation area where medical staff will review your medical history, perform necessary tests, and provide you with a hospital gown to wear.
• Anesthesia:Depending on the specific situation, you may be given local anesthesia or conscious sedation to help you relax during the procedure. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used.
• Catheter insertion:A catheter (thin, flexible tube) will be inserted into a blood vessel, typically in the groin or arm, and guided towards the affected artery. X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy) may be used to help the doctor navigate the catheter to the precise location.
• Angiography:A contrast dye will be injected through the catheter to visualize the blood vessels and identify the blockage. X-ray images will be taken to assess the extent and location of the narrowing or blockage.
• Balloon inflation:Once the blockage is identified, a smaller balloon catheter will be advanced to the site of the blockage. The balloon will then be inflated and deflated several times to widen the narrowed artery, compress the plaque, and improve blood flow. This process may cause temporary discomfort or chest pain.
• Stent placement (if necessary):In some cases, a stent, which is a small, metal mesh tube, may be placed during the angioplasty. The stent helps keep the artery open and prevent re-narrowing. It is inserted over a deflated balloon and then expanded when the balloon is inflated. The balloon is deflated and removed, leaving the stent in place.
• Completion and recovery:Once the angioplasty is complete, the catheter(s) will be removed, and pressure will be applied to the insertion site to minimize bleeding. You will be moved to a recovery area where your vital signs will be monitored. In most cases, you will be required to lie flat for a few hours to prevent bleeding at the insertion site. Afterward, you will be gradually allowed to sit up and walk around.
• Post-procedure care: may be prescribed medications to prevent blood clots, control blood pressure, or reduce cholesterol levels. Your healthcare team will provide specific instructions regarding medication use, wound care, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments.