MINIMALLY INVASIVE TREATMENT
Angioplasty & Stenting of Peripheral and Central Vessels
Angioplasty and stenting are minimally invasive, image-guided procedures used to restore blood flow in narrowed or blocked blood vessels. These procedures are commonly performed in peripheral arteries and central vessels to improve circulation and relieve symptoms caused by vascular disease.
What Is Angioplasty and Stenting?
Angioplasty is a catheter-based procedure in which a small balloon is used to widen a narrowed or blocked blood vessel. In many cases, a stent (a small metal mesh tube) is placed to help keep the vessel open and maintain blood flow.
These procedures are performed under imaging guidance, allowing precise treatment while minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues.
Who May Be Considered for Angioplasty & Stenting?
Angioplasty and stenting may be considered in patients with:
- Peripheral artery disease affecting the limbs
- Narrowing or blockage of central vessels
- Symptoms such as pain, reduced circulation, or non-healing wounds
- Imaging evidence of significant vascular narrowing
- Failure of conservative or medical management
Eligibility is determined after clinical evaluation and appropriate imaging studies.
How Angioplasty & Stenting Are Performed
- The procedure is performed under image guidance
- Local anesthesia is commonly used
- A catheter is guided to the narrowed or blocked vessel
- A balloon is inflated to widen the vessel
- A stent may be placed to support the vessel and maintain patency
Potential Advantages of Angioplasty & Stenting
- Minimally invasive, image-guided approach
- Avoids large surgical incisions
- Can improve blood flow and reduce symptoms
- May be performed as a planned or urgent procedure in selected cases
Recovery and Aftercare
Patients are monitored after the procedure, and follow-up imaging may be recommended to assess vessel patency. Medications and lifestyle measures may be advised to support long-term outcomes.
Recovery recommendations vary based on individual clinical factors and should be followed as advised by the treating doctor.
Risks and Considerations
Like all interventional procedures, angioplasty and stenting have potential risks, including:
Bleeding or bruising at the access site
Vessel injury or restenosis
Infection (rare)
Need for additional interventions in selected cases
Not all patients experience these effects, and risks vary depending on individual factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is angioplasty the same as surgery?
No. Angioplasty is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure performed through small access points rather than open surgery.
Is a stent always required?
Not always. The decision to place a stent depends on vessel characteristics and clinical findings.
Does angioplasty require hospital admission?
Some procedures are performed with short hospital observation, while others may require admission depending on clinical circumstances.
Consult for Angioplasty & Stenting Evaluation
Clinical assessment and imaging studies are essential to determine whether angioplasty or stenting is appropriate and to plan treatment safely.