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.
Send Page to a Friend | Print Page | Add Page to Favorites Site Index | Privacy Policy | Disclaimer | Release of Information | Contact Us
All health care services are provided through affiliates and/or subsidiaries of INTEGRIS Health, Inc.
INTEGRIS HealthLine (OKC)(405) 951-2277
INTEGRIS HealthLine (Toll-Free)(888) 951-2277