What is it?
Angioplasty is a medical procedure used to open narrowed or blocked blood vessels, especially arteries, to improve blood flow.
Why is it done?
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To treat arteries narrowed by plaque buildup (atherosclerosis).
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To relieve symptoms like chest pain (angina).
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To prevent heart attacks.
How is it done?
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A thin tube called a catheter with a small balloon on its tip is inserted into the blocked artery.
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The balloon is inflated to widen the artery and restore blood flow.
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Often, a stent (a small mesh tube) is placed to keep the artery open.
Recovery:
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Usually performed under local anesthesia with mild sedation.
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Patients can often go home the same day or after a short hospital stay.
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Follow-up visits are needed to monitor artery health.