Angioplasty Surgery:

Angioplasty surgery is common now a days when it comes the term heart attack. Even now, in the 21st century, it is still called “heart disease” and is one of the most common causes of death on Earth. Nowadays cases of heart attack are increasing, in such a situation it is important to know about angioplasty surgery. Angioplasty is a surgery in which the blocked arteries of the heart are opened, so that the blood flow can be corrected. During or after a heart attack, when there is a blockage in the arteries and the blood flow stops, then this surgery is needed.

Angioplasty is likely to be the best way to bring back the blood flow into the heart muscle. This article will discuss what this term indicates explaining its usage as an action on patients with heart attacks.

What is angioplasty surgery?

Angioplasty is a surgery in which blocked arteries of the heart are opened so that blood flow can be restored. A thin tube (catheter) is used in this procedure. There is a small balloon at the end of this tube, which is inflated after reaching the blocked part. This removes the block and blood flow is restored. Sometimes, a stent (small metal tube) is also inserted so that the artery remains open.

How Angioplasty Works:

1. Before the procedure begins, local anesthesia is usually used on the patients to make them feel no pain in the area where catheter—an ultra-thin and flexible tube—is to be slid into from time to time they insert mostly at the wrist or at arm or in groin.

2. Through one of the arteries, the cardiologist will pass the catheter and guide it to where there is a blocked coronary artery using the help of special imaging equipment called X-ray imaging.

3. In cases it is found that the catheter has reached the blockage, a tiny balloon which is placed on its tip gets inflated hence widening atheroma—a mixture of fats, cholesterols among other things—against the artery lining thus increasing blood supply by making it wider.

4. Many times an additional wire mesh metal tube known as stent may also be inserted in order to maintain an open passage within the blood vessel; this metallic device will remain permanently implanted hence reducing chances of re-narrowing.

5. Once the balloon has been deflated and removed, the stent remains in place which helps the blood flow more freely and easily into previously occluded nodules from which there were constraints in circulation.

When is it needed in case of a heart attack?

According to experts, a heart attack occurs when there is a blockage in the arteries of the heart, which stops the flow of blood. In such a case, angioplasty surgery may be needed. This surgery is done when…

- Blood flow stops: If blood flow in the heart arteries stops and there is no improvement with medicines, then angioplasty has to be done.

- There is severe blockage: If the blockage in the arteries is very severe and blood is not able to reach the heart, then angioplasty is required.

- Recurrent pain: If you are having frequent chest pain (angina) and the pain does not go away even with rest, then angioplasty surgery is done.

How much does it cost?
The cost of angioplasty surgery can vary. It depends on the hospital where you are getting treatment and the facilities there. Usually, the cost of this surgery can range from Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 3 lakh. This may include hospital expenses, doctor’s fees, stent expenses and other medical expenses. In some places, insurance may also cover this expense, so check your insurance policy as well.

Post-surgery care

- Consult a doctor: Consult a doctor regularly.

- Take medicines: Take medicines at the right time and as prescribed by the doctor.

- Healthy Diet: Take a healthy diet and avoid eating fried food.

- Exercise regularly: Do light exercise, like walking or yoga.

- Stay away from stress: Try to reduce stress and get enough sleep.

Disclaimer: Some of the information given in the news is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, please consult the concerned expert.