Coronary Angioplasty with Stenting Animation:
	Click here to see this animation about coronary angioplasty with stenting for treating blocked heart arteries.

During an angioplasty, a small flexible tube (catheter) is inserted through an artery in the groin area or in the arm. The catheter is carefully guided to the blocked coronary artery. Once in the proper location, the physician inflates a small balloon attached to the tip of the catheter. The pressure from the inflated balloon compresses the plaque (a fatty substance that builds up inside the lining of blood vessels creating blockages) against the wall of the artery, opening the artery and improving blood flow. Frequently after the angioplasty, the physician may insert a stent (a small expandable wire tube) to hold the coronary vessel open.