What is Angioplasty?
An angioplasty is a procedure in which a balloon is expanded in a narrowed blood vessel, stretching the walls of the vessel to restore normal blood flow.
How do I know if I need angioplasty?
You may experience pain in your legs or trouble walking. A procedure called an arteriogram (an x-ray of the blood vessel) will be performed prior to your angioplasty to pinpoint the exact area for treatment with the balloon.
What happens during angioplasty?
During the procedure, you will need to lay flat. An intravenous (small needle) will be inserted into your arm after a numbing medication is used. With the tube in place, x-ray dye will be injected through the plastic tube and photographs taken.
What happens after angioplasty?
You may be required to stay in the hospital overnight for observation. You should keep the arm or leg, where the plastic tube was inserted, straight for several hours after angioplasty. Drink plenty of fluids. Your doctor may recommend aspirin or other medications.