What is Angioplasty?
Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to address blockages in blood vessels. Though it was initially invented for treating blood vessels of the heart, called coronary arteries, it has now expanded to address and restore blood flow to different parts of the body, such as the brain, kidneys, peripheral arteries of the upper and lower limbs, and the aorta.
The procedure involves the use of a small catheter, which is a flexible tube placed at the vessel opening. A thin guidewire is negotiated across the blockages, followed by the inflation of a small balloon to widen the artery. A stent is deployed at a certain position to keep the artery open.
What are the signs that indicate the need for angioplasty?
Pain in the lower limbs
Cramps and pain in both lower limbs can be a sign that blood supply is insufficient, known as limb claudication or vascular insufficiency. This condition is progressive and can lead to trophic changes such as loss of sensation, loss of distal digits, dry gangrene, etc. Angioplasty is very important to restore blood flow.
Angina
Commonly known as chest pain, it can have a sudden onset, which is related to unstable blockage or sudden and complete closure of a blood vessel. Alternatively, it can be slowly progressive, which is related to an underlying fixed stable condition of blockage.
According to Dr. Akshay Kashid, Consultant- Cardiologist, Manipal Hospital, Baner, Pune, “The symptoms can vary, presenting as associated sweating, shortness of breath, or dizziness. They may occur during exertion or at rest and can range from mild to severe. In such cases, early identification, timely consultation with a cardiologist, and undergoing angioplasty at the right time can be life-saving.”
Weakness
According to Dr. Tanmai Yermal Jain, Consultant- Cardiologist, Manipal Kharadi, “Breathing problems during regular activities can indicate that the heart isn’t getting enough oxygenated blood. Unexplained weakness or weariness, particularly after effort, may indicate a decrease in blood supply to the heart. Syncope, transient loss of consciousness and excessive sweating on exertional activities or even at rest is one such sign.”
Stroke-like condition
This is a serious condition caused by a lack of blood flow to the brain. Brain cells cannot sustain insufficient blood flow, which causes reduced oxygen and nutrients, leading to their gradual death. This condition can lead to recurrent dizziness, paralysis, and many psychological issues. To ensure normal blood supply, angioplasty is recommended.
Uncontrolled and resistant hypertension
This condition is not uncommon, with patients often requiring multiple medications—sometimes 5 to 6—to control their blood pressure. However, blood pressure may still be poorly controlled. On evaluation by ultrasound Doppler, a condition called atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis is diagnosed.
This condition is very commonly seen in middle-aged, high-risk individuals. If diagnosed in a timely manner, it can be treated by renal arterial angioplasty with stent placement, giving excellent results by controlling blood pressure, reducing systemic adverse effects on the body, and lowering the number of required medications.
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