If you or a loved one has been told they need angioplasty, it is natural to have questions. Dr. Jyotirmaya Dash — who has performed over 10,000 angioplasty procedures — explains everything you need to know in simple terms.
What is Angioplasty?
Angioplasty (also called Percutaneous Coronary Intervention or PCI) is a minimally invasive procedure used to open blocked or narrowed coronary arteries. It is done through a small puncture — usually in the wrist or groin — without any surgical incisions.
How Does It Work?
A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is guided through the artery to the blockage. A tiny balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated to push the plaque against the artery wall and widen the vessel. In most cases, a small metal mesh tube called a stent is then placed to keep the artery open permanently.
Types of Angioplasty
- Primary Angioplasty — Emergency treatment during a heart attack
- Elective Angioplasty — Planned procedure for stable coronary artery disease
- Complex PTCA — For left main, bifurcation, or multi-vessel disease
- CTO Angioplasty — Opening completely blocked arteries (Chronic Total Occlusion)
Is Angioplasty Safe?
Yes. Angioplasty has an excellent safety record when performed by an experienced interventional cardiologist. Dr. Dash uses advanced imaging guidance with IVUS and OCT to ensure optimal stent placement and reduce the risk of complications.
What to Expect After Angioplasty
Most patients are discharged within 1–2 days. You will be prescribed blood-thinning medications to keep the stent open. Regular follow-up is essential in the first year. Most patients report significant improvement in symptoms and exercise capacity.
Book a Consultation
If you have been diagnosed with coronary artery disease or have symptoms of blocked arteries, consult Dr. Jyotirmaya Dash at The CardioCare Clinic, Kodambakkam.
Call: +91 99943 26835 | Jayam Centre, No. 11, Kodambakkam, Chennai – 600 024