A catheter-based procedure (PCI, percutaneous coronary intervention) that opens a blocked or narrowed coronary artery, usually by placing a stent to keep it open.
Coronary Angioplasty (PCI) & Stents in Ahmedabad
Interventional Cardiology
Coronary Angioplasty (PCI) & Stents in Ahmedabad
Coronary angioplasty (percutaneous coronary intervention, or PCI) is a catheter-based procedure that opens a blocked or narrowed coronary artery, usually by placing a stent to keep it open. Dr. Kulin Sheth performs it at Apollo CVHF Hospital, Bodakdev.
Indications
Angioplasty is considered when a significant blockage is identified (via angiography) that's contributing to symptoms or carries meaningful risk, and where this approach is judged more suitable than medication alone or bypass surgery.
The Procedure
- A catheter is guided to the blocked artery, usually via the wrist or groin.
- A balloon at the catheter's tip is inflated to open the narrowing.
- A stent is typically placed to keep the artery open going forward.
- The balloon and catheter are withdrawn, leaving the stent in place.
Preparation
Specific instructions on fasting and medication are provided ahead of the procedure.
Preparing for Procedures
Recovery
Hospital stay is typically short. Most patients resume normal activity within a defined recovery period, guided by Dr. Kulin Sheth based on the individual case.
Risks
Risks include those common to catheter-based procedures (access-site complications, contrast reactions) and, less commonly, complications specific to stenting, all reviewed with you beforehand.
Angioplasty vs. Bypass Surgery
The decision depends on the specific pattern of blockages, overall health, and clinical judgment, worked through together as part of your treatment planning. Whichever direction the case points, Dr. Kulin Sheth takes the time to explain your results in depth. He walks through the path and options ahead with clarity and gives you time to think before deciding.
- Angioplasty (PCI): catheter-based, through a blood vessel. Typical recovery is shorter. It suits single or limited-vessel disease with suitable anatomy.
- Bypass surgery (CABG): open-heart surgery. Typical recovery is longer. It suits more extensive, multi-vessel disease.
Can Angioplasty Be Done Without a Stent?
In selected cases, yes. A drug-coated balloon (DCB) can treat certain blockages without leaving a permanent stent behind. Suitability depends on the specific lesion.
Frequently asked questions
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What is coronary angioplasty?
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Is angioplasty major surgery?No. It's a minimally invasive, catheter-based procedure, not open surgery.
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Is angioplasty painful?Most patients experience minimal discomfort, with local anesthesia at the access site.
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How long does angioplasty take, and what's the hospital stay?This varies by case complexity. Your team will give you a clearer estimate based on your specific situation.
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Can a 100% blockage be treated with angioplasty?In many cases, yes, depending on its location and the artery's condition beyond the blockage, assessed during the procedure itself.
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How long does a stent last?Stents are generally intended to be a long-term, permanent solution, though ongoing risk-factor management remains important afterward.
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Angioplasty or bypass - how is that decided?Based on the specific pattern and extent of blockages, overall health, and clinical judgment, weighed case by case rather than by a fixed rule.
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Can I have angioplasty without a stent?In selected cases, yes, via a drug-coated balloon (DCB). Suitability depends on the specific blockage — worth discussing directly with Dr. Kulin Sheth.
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Where is coronary angioplasty performed?Dr. Kulin Sheth performs it at Apollo CVHF in Bodakdev, Ahmedabad.
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Reach Dr. Kulin Sheth's team directly by phone or WhatsApp, or visit us at Sheth Heart Clinic, Bopal.