Angioplasty

Angioplasty is a procedure that creates more space inside an artery that has plaque built up inside it. Your healthcare provider uses a tiny balloon to force plaque against the artery walls so blood can get through your artery. Often, they also place a stent or tube inside the newly opened space to keep it open.

Angioplasty, also called balloon angioplasty, is a procedure that opens arteries to let blood go through more easily. Healthcare providers use this minimally invasive procedure in tight spots in arteries where plaque makes the space inside an artery too narrow or blocks it.

Who Needs to have Angioplasty?

People who have coronary artery disease or a heart attack may need to have coronary angioplasty. Angioplasty is also used in other parts of the body that have narrow or blocked arteries, such as your neck, arms and legs, kidneys and pelvis. Angioplasty allows more blood to get through an artery that’s too narrow or blocked with plaque. This means the organ that artery reaches will get a better supply of blood after angioplasty.

What does Angioplasty Treat?

Angioplasty treats atherosclerosis (a collection of plaque made of fat and cholesterol) in your arteries in several different places in your body.

• Coronary artery disease. Coronary angioplasty, or percutaneous coronary intervention, can help you if you have a narrow or blocked coronary artery that’s keeping your heart from getting the oxygen it needs, causing chest pain and/or a heart attack.
• Peripheral artery disease. Angioplasty treats atherosclerosis in the major arteries in your arms, legs and pelvis.
• Carotid artery disease. Angioplasty can help with blocked arteries in your neck. Left untreated, they can lead to a stroke if your brain isn’t getting enough oxygen.
• Chronic kidney disease. When plaque collects in the arteries in your kidneys, it affects how much oxygen can reach your kidneys. Sometimes a renal artery angioplasty can help.