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8619 Broadway St. STE 105
Pearland, Tx 77584

Location

201 Oak Dr South, STE 105
Lake Jackson, TX 77566

Angioplasty Treatment

Angioplasty Treatment at Coastal Vascular Center

At Coastal Vascular Center, we understand peripheral arterial disease’s (PAD) significant challenges and discomfort . This condition impairs blood flow to your limbs and negatively impacts mobility and quality of life. That’s why we’re committed to providing cutting-edge solutions like angioplasty, a procedure to enhance blood circulation to your legs and arms. Our Angioplasty page is designed to educate you on this innovative, less invasive treatment option, offering a viable alternative to more traditional surgeries.

Peripheral arterial disease develops when the arteries that supply blood to your limbs become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup. This leads to symptoms like pain, cramps, and fatigue, particularly during physical activities. We aim to highlight how angioplasty can effectively widen these narrowed arteries, improving blood flow, alleviating symptoms, and ultimately enriching your mobility and life.

With the expert leadership of Dr. Divyang C. Ayar and our dedicated team, Coastal Vascular Center prioritizes your health and comfort above all. Here we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the angioplasty procedure, explaining how it’s performed, its benefits, and what you can expect during the recovery phase. Whether you’re seeking to understand your treatment options for PAD or looking for symptom relief, our Angioplasty page is intended to offer all the information you need.

Take a step towards a future with enhanced mobility and reduced discomfort. Coastal Vascular Center can assist you in overcoming the limitations of peripheral arterial disease and leading a more active, fulfilling life.

angioplasty

What Is Angioplasty?

Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to open clogged or narrowed blood vessels, improving blood flow and relieving symptoms associated with restricted circulation. This procedure, often referred to as percutaneous coronary intervention, uses a balloon catheter to compress arterial blockages and may incorporate the use of a stent—a small metal mesh tube—to keep the artery open after the procedure.

Angioplasty is a popular alternative to open surgery for treating conditions like coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and other vascular blockages that compromise blood flow. Most procedures do not require general anesthesia and can often be performed without an overnight hospital stay.

Unlock a New Lease on Life with Coastal Vascular Center's Angioplasty Services

Don’t let peripheral arterial disease keep you from living the life you love. Schedule your consultation with Coastal Vascular Center now and find out how angioplasty may be a method to open the path to improved health and activity.

Why Is Angioplasty Performed?

Angioplasty addresses the buildup of fatty plaques (known as atherosclerosis) on artery walls that can lead to reduced blood flow, chest discomfort, and other serious complications such as heart attacks. This treatment is commonly used to manage the following conditions:

  • Coronary Artery Disease: Narrowing of the arteries that supply blood and oxygen to the heart muscle.
  • Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Blockages in the arteries of the arms or legs.
  • Carotid Artery Stenosis: Narrowing of the neck arteries that supply blood to the brain.
  • Narrowing in Veins or Dialysis Fistulas: Common issues in the chest, abdomen, pelvis, or limbs.

Your doctor may recommend angioplasty if:

  • Medications or lifestyle changes fail to improve your heart health.
  • Chest pain worsens over time.
  • You experience a heart attack; angioplasty can quickly open blocked arteries to minimize heart muscle damage.

Benefits of Angioplasty

Angioplasty offers several advantages over traditional surgical options:

  • Minimally Invasive: No surgical incisions are required.
  • Low Risk and Cost: It’s less invasive and cost-effective than bypass surgery.
  • No Extended Hospital Stay: Often performed on an outpatient basis, allowing quicker recovery.
  • Uses Local Anesthesia: There’s no need for general anesthesia.
  • Quick Recovery: You can return to normal activities sooner than other procedures.

Improving blood flow reduces symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath, significantly enhancing your quality of life.

Are There Any Risks?

While angioplasty is relatively safe, like any medical procedure, it carries some risks:

  • Bleeding or Bruising: At the catheter insertion site. In rare cases, severe bleeding may require additional treatment.
  • Blood Clot Formation or Arterial Damage: Due to the catheter.
  • Re-Narrowing of the Artery: If no stent is used, or with bare-metal stents (occurs in 10–20% of cases).
  • Stroke Risk: When performed on the carotid artery.
  • Infection: As with all procedures involving skin penetration.

Your doctor will discuss all potential risks and benefits with you before the procedure.

angioplasty improving blood flow

Angioplasty Procedure

Angioplasty occurs in a special operating room called a catheterization laboratory. A vascular specialist should always perform it. This procedure is performed through an artery in your groin, arm, or wrist. General anesthesia isn’t needed. However, you will be given relaxing sedatives, and patients will receive a local anesthetic to numb the catheter insertion site.

The needle is inserted into a tapered tube called a sheath through the hole. A catheter with a balloon in its tip is inserted through the sheath. An imaging method called fluoroscopy guides the needle to the blocked artery. With the tip at the site of the blockage, the balloon is inflated. The balloon pushes the plaque against the artery wall and relieves the blockage. Depending on the difficulty and number of blockages and whether any complications arise, angioplasty can take up to several hours.

There may be pressure in the area where the catheter is inserted. Additionally, you may feel some mild discomfort when the balloon is inflated. However, typically you shouldn’t feel any sharp pain during the procedure.

When the procedure is complete, the doctor removes the catheter and sheath. Then they close the opening in the blood vessel. The patient is then moved to a special care unit, where he or she will recover anywhere from a few hours to overnight. During recovery, the care team monitors the patient’s vital signs. Additionally, they will ensure the catheter insertion site closes properly.

After The Procedure

The site where the catheter was inserted may be bruised and sore. This is temporary.

After the operation, your blood pressure and heart rate will be monitored for several hours. Also, the insertion site will be checked for bleeding or swelling. Bleeding at the site where the catheter entered the vein is less likely when the veins are treated. Your doctor may prescribe medicine to relax your arteries, protect against artery spasms, and prevent blood clots.

Once you are at home, you should rest and drink plenty of fluids. Do not lift any heavy objects and exercise for at least 24 hours. Additionally, avoid smoking permanently. Smoking is a major cause of atherosclerosis.

If you see bleeding where the catheter was inserted, you should lie down and apply pressure. Tell your doctor right away if your leg changes color or if the catheter location feels warm. After the procedure, you may be prescribed aspirin or blood thinners. These drugs can prevent blood clots from forming.

Your interventional radiologist can tell you whether the procedure was successful by comparing your before and after angiograms.

Your interventional radiologist may recommend a follow-up visit.

This visit may include a physical check-up, imaging exam(s), and blood tests. During your follow-up visit, tell your doctor about any side effects or changes you have noticed.

Understanding Angioplasty: Your Questions Answered

Are you considering or preparing for an angioplasty? We’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to help you better understand the procedure. From how it works and who it’s for to recovery and lifestyle changes, our goal is to provide you with clear, concise information.

Whether you’re wondering about the risks, the role of stents, or what to expect during recovery, this guide covers it all. Get the answers you need to feel informed and confident about your heart health journey!

What is angioplasty, and how does it work?

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Angioplasty is a minimally invasive medical procedure designed to restore blood flow through the artery. A small balloon attached to a catheter is inflated at the site of the blockage to help widen the artery. In many cases, a device called a stent is permanently placed to keep the artery open.

What are the risks associated with angioplasty?

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While generally safe, angioplasty carries potential risks like any surgical procedure. These may include reactions to the dye used, bleeding at the catheter insertion site, blood vessel damage, heart attack, or kidney damage. Risks vary based on individual health factors.

How long does the procedure take?

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The duration of an angioplasty procedure can vary but typically takes between 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the complexity of the condition being treated.

What is the recovery like after angioplasty?

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Most patients are monitored overnight and can usually go home the next day if there are no complications. Recovery includes taking prescribed medications, possibly participating in a cardiac rehabilitation program, and follow-up appointments. Most people return to normal activities within a week, but full recovery guidelines should be discussed with a doctor.

How soon can I resume normal activities?

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Post-angioplasty, patients are generally advised to avoid strenuous activities for a few days to a week. Specific recommendations may vary based on individual health and the complexity of the procedure performed.

Ready to Discover if Angioplasty is Right for You?

Deciding on the proper treatment for peripheral arterial disease is a crucial step in managing your health, and angioplasty might just be the solution you need to regain your mobility and improve your quality of life. Coastal Vascular Center is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you receive the personalized care and expert advice that’s aligned with your health goals.

What Can You Do Next?

  • Consult with Dr. Ayar: Explore your treatment options during an in-depth consultation with our experienced vascular specialists who can assess your condition and recommend the best course of action.
  • Learn More: Read more about how angioplasty has helped others regain control of their lives and consider whether it might be the right choice for you.
  • Connect with us: Call us or fill out our online contact form to schedule your appointment. Our friendly staff is eager to answer any questions and help you schedule a visit at your convenience.

At Coastal Vascular Center, we believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality vascular care. Whether angioplasty is the right option for you or if other treatments are more suitable, we are committed to helping you achieve the best possible health outcomes.

Take the Next Step Towards Better Health

If you think you or a loved one might benefit from angioplasty, don’t hesitate. Contact us today to schedule your consultation at Coastal Vascular Center. It’s your first move toward improved health, mobility, and a more active lifestyle. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Schedule Your Appointment today and take a stride toward a healthier tomorrow. You don’t have to live limited by peripheral arterial disease; help is just an appointment away!

Dr. Ayar - Coastal Vascular Center

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