About Coronary Angioplasty (PTCA) & Stenting
Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty (PTCA) is a minimally invasive procedure that opens narrowed or blocked coronary arteries without open-heart surgery. A small balloon is inflated at the site of the blockage, and a stent — a tiny mesh tube — is usually placed to keep the artery open.
Our interventional cardiologists perform elective angioplasty for stable angina as well as emergency (primary) angioplasty for heart attacks, supported by a dedicated cardiac ICU with round-the-clock monitoring.
Also known as: PTCA, PCI, balloon angioplasty, heart stent
Who is it recommended for?
Your doctor may recommend this if you have:
- Significant blockage found on coronary angiography
- Heart attack (acute myocardial infarction) needing urgent opening of the artery
- Angina not controlled with medicines
- Positive stress test with high-risk features
How is it done at AKG Hospital?
- Access Under local anaesthesia, a catheter is inserted through the wrist or groin artery.
- Crossing the blockage A fine guide wire is passed across the narrowed segment of the coronary artery.
- Balloon dilatation A balloon catheter is inflated to widen the narrowed artery.
- Stent placement A stent (commonly drug-eluting) is deployed to keep the artery open.
- Confirmation Final angiographic images confirm good blood flow before the catheter is removed.
How to prepare
- Coronary angiography report and films, if done elsewhere
- Fasting as advised by the cardiology team
- Disclose all medicines, allergies and kidney problems
- Blood-thinning (antiplatelet) medicines may be started before the procedure
Recovery & aftercare
Most patients are monitored in the cardiac ICU or step-down ward and go home within 1–3 days. It is essential to take antiplatelet medicines exactly as prescribed and never stop them without consulting your cardiologist. Cardiac rehabilitation, a heart-healthy diet, quitting smoking and control of BP, sugar and cholesterol protect the stent and your heart.
Benefits
- Avoids open-heart surgery
- Rapid relief of angina
- Life-saving when done early in a heart attack
- Short hospital stay and quick return to routine
Risks & when to seek help
Possible risks include bleeding at the access site, reaction to dye, re-narrowing or clotting of the stent, and rarely heart attack or the need for emergency surgery. Seek immediate help for new chest pain, breathlessness or bleeding.
Frequently asked questions
Is angioplasty a major surgery?
No. It is done through a small puncture in the wrist or groin under local anaesthesia, without opening the chest.
How long will the stent last?
A stent is permanent. Keeping it open depends on taking prescribed medicines and controlling risk factors such as smoking, diabetes, BP and cholesterol.
When can I return to work?
Many patients resume desk work within a week. Your cardiologist will advise based on your heart condition and job.
Is emergency angioplasty available for heart attacks?
Yes. Our department provides 24/7 emergency cardiac care for acute heart attacks.
This page gives general information to help you understand Coronary Angioplasty (PTCA) & Stenting. It does not replace a consultation — your doctor will advise what is right for you.
