PCI - Percutaneous coronary intervention /coronary angioplasty or balloon angioplasty,

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)

Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), also known as coronary angioplasty or balloon angioplasty, is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat coronary artery disease (CAD) by opening narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. CAD occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries that supply blood to the heart, leading to reduced blood flow and potentially causing chest pain (angina) or a heart attack.

During a PCI procedure, a cardiologist inserts a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into a blood vessel, typically in the groin or wrist, and threads it up to the coronary arteries. The catheter has a deflated balloon at its tip, along with a stent, which is a metal mesh tube, placed around the deflated balloon.

Once the catheter reaches the site of the blockage, the balloon is inflated, compressing the plaque against the artery walls and widening the narrowed passage. This process is called balloon angioplasty. In many cases, a stent is also deployed during the procedure. The stent expands when the balloon inflates, helping to keep the artery open after the balloon is deflated and removed.

The stent acts as a scaffold, preventing the artery from re-narrowing (restenosis) and promoting blood flow to the heart muscle. Stents can be either bare-metal stents or drug-eluting stents (DES). Drug-eluting stents are coated with medications that help reduce the risk of restenosis.

PCI is typically performed under local anesthesia, and patients are usually awake during the procedure. It is a relatively safe and effective procedure for relieving symptoms of CAD, improving blood flow to the heart, and reducing the risk of heart attacks. After the procedure, patients are usually monitored for a short period in the hospital and can often go home the same day or the following day.

It's important to note that PCI is not suitable for everyone, and the decision to undergo the procedure depends on various factors, including the severity of the blockages, the patient's overall health, and their symptoms. Other treatment options for CAD may include medication, lifestyle changes, or, in some cases, coronary artery bypass surgery. If you have concerns about your heart health or potential treatment options, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional or cardiologist for personalized advice.