A minimally invasive procedure to open blocked heart arteries and restore normal blood flow.
Angioplasty, also called percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), is a minimally invasive procedure used to open narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. It is a common treatment for coronary artery disease and is often used after an angiography identifies a significant blockage.
During angioplasty, a tiny balloon is inflated inside the narrowed artery to compress the plaque against the artery wall. This widens the artery and restores blood flow to the heart muscle. In most cases, a small mesh tube called a stent is also placed to keep the artery open over the long term.
Because angioplasty does not require open surgery, most patients recover quickly and return to normal activities sooner than they would after more invasive procedures.
Angioplasty may be recommended for patients who have:
Angioplasty is not suitable for every patient. Several factors affect the decision, including the number and location of blockages, the health of surrounding vessels and your overall medical condition. Your cardiologist will explain whether angioplasty is an appropriate option for you.
Angioplasty is performed in our catheterisation laboratory by an experienced interventional cardiologist. Here is what to expect:
The entire procedure typically lasts about one to two hours. Most patients are awake during the procedure with light sedation and local anaesthesia.
Most patients stay in hospital for one to two nights after the procedure. You will be advised to drink fluids, rest and avoid heavy lifting for a week or two. The groin or wrist access site may feel sore for a few days.
After angioplasty, your cardiologist will prescribe medicines to prevent blood clots and protect the stent. It is very important to take these medicines exactly as prescribed and never stop them without your doctor's advice.
Joining a cardiac rehabilitation programme after angioplasty can significantly improve recovery. Our rehabilitation team provides supervised exercise, heart-healthy lifestyle education and ongoing support.
No. Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure. It is performed through a small puncture in the wrist or groin rather than an open incision in the chest. Most patients have a faster recovery compared with open heart surgery.
Most patients stay in hospital for one to two nights for observation. Your doctor will decide when you are ready to go home based on your condition and recovery progress.
Most patients can resume light daily activities within a few days. Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided for about one to two weeks. Your cardiologist and cardiac rehabilitation team will give you specific guidance.
Modern drug-eluting stents significantly reduce the risk of re-narrowing. Continuing prescribed medicines and maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle are the most important steps to prevent new blockages from forming.
You will likely be prescribed antiplatelet medicines to prevent blood clots, along with medicines to manage blood pressure, cholesterol or other conditions. Always take medicines exactly as prescribed and discuss any questions with your doctor.
Talk to our interventional cardiology team about your treatment options.