Coronary Angiography (Balloon + Stent)

For individuals experiencing various heart health issues, coronary angiography and the treatments applied after coronary angiography are crucial. In this blog post, you can find information about what coronary angiography is, how it is performed, what balloon angioplasty and stent are, how they are applied, and the recovery process after coronary angiography. Continue reading to discover how these procedures are carried out and the benefits they provide.

What is Coronary Angiography?

Coronary angiography is a medical test performed to evaluate the condition of the coronary arteries leading to the heart. This test involves taking an X-ray image by injecting a contrast agent. Coronary angiography helps identify narrowings, blockages, or other abnormalities in the coronary arteries. This way, it enables the diagnosis of heart diseases, and an appropriate treatment plan can be devised.

During this procedure, a doctor places a tube (catheter) into the coronary arteries. Subsequently, by injecting a contrast agent, the doctor visualizes the blood vessels and the heart. This process is monitored in real-time with the help of a fluoroscopy device. The doctor examines these images to assess the condition of the vessels and applies appropriate treatment if any issues are detected.

Several precautions need to be taken before performing this test. Especially, individuals with allergies to contrast agents and those with kidney problems may not be suitable for this test. Additionally, the amount of radiation used during the test should be considered. Therefore, your doctor will provide detailed information about the test and evaluate the risks for you.

Coronary angiography is a medical test performed to evaluate the condition of the coronary arteries.

This test involves taking an X-ray image by injecting a contrast agent.

Coronary angiography helps diagnose heart diseases and plan appropriate treatment.

How is the Coronary Angiography Procedure Performed?

Coronary angiography is an invasive medical procedure used to assess the condition and blood flow of the heart's vessels. This procedure is a diagnostic method for cases of narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries (vessels supplying the heart muscle). The coronary angiography procedure consists of the following steps:

1. Preparation:

The patient should follow special instructions before the procedure, often involving fasting for 6-8 hours before. The patient should continue using any medications recommended by the doctor. On the day of the procedure, registration is completed at the hospital, and the patient is taken to the preparation room.

2. Local Anesthesia:

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia. The area usually is the groin. Local anesthesia is applied to this area to numb it, and the patient remains awake.

3. Catheter Placement:

A small incision is made in the numbed area, and the doctor inserts a catheter through this opening to reach the artery.

4. Contrast Agent Injection:

Using the catheter, a contrast agent (dye) is injected into the coronary arteries. This dye enhances the visibility of the vessels in X-ray films.

5. Imaging:

After the injection of the contrast agent, images of the coronary arteries are taken using an X-ray machine. These images help the doctor evaluate the condition of the vessels and identify possible blockages.

6. Catheter Removal:

After the procedure is complete, the catheter is removed, and the recovery process begins.

7. Recovery Process:

Coronary angiography is generally a safe procedure, but complications can sometimes occur. The patient may be observed for a while after the procedure, and symptoms are monitored. The doctor will provide specific instructions for the patient's post-procedural recovery.

What is Balloon Angioplasty and How is it Applied?

Balloon angioplasty is a cardiovascular procedure used to open narrowings in coronary arteries. Balloon angioplasty is an invasive procedure performed using a catheter. During this procedure, a balloon catheter is advanced to the narrowed area through a catheter, inflated, and the narrowing is widened. This restores normal blood flow, ensuring the healthy nourishment of the heart muscle.

The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, and the patient remains awake. An access point is created in the skin to an artery, and the catheter is placed into the artery from this point. The catheter is advanced to the coronary arteries and directed to the narrowed area. When the balloon catheter is inflated, the narrowing expands, improving blood flow. If necessary, the doctor may also place a stent at the same time. The stent helps keep the narrowed area open and ensures regular blood flow.

What is a Stent and How Does it Function?

A stent is a commonly used medical device in the field of medicine. Stents are widely used, especially in the treatment of heart and vascular diseases. Stents are used to open narrowed or blocked vessels and regulate blood flow.

A stent is typically a thin tube made of metal or synthetic material. This tube is placed into the narrowed vessel with the help of a balloon and is then placed in position by inflating the balloon. The balloon is then deflated, and the stent maintains its position in the vessel. Stents effectively function to keep blood vessels open.

These devices are frequently used, especially in individuals with coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease is a condition that restricts or blocks blood flow to the heart muscle, leading to a lack of oxygen and nutrients. Stents can help open narrowed coronary arteries and regulate blood flow. Stents can also be used to open narrowed vessels in the brain, kidneys, and other organs.

Recovery Process after Coronary Angiography

Coronary angiography is a crucial step in the diagnosis and treatment process of heart and vascular diseases. After this procedure, the recovery and rehabilitation process begins for the patient. The recovery process after coronary angiography can vary depending on the patient's condition and the type of intervention performed.

After the procedure, patients are usually monitored in the hospital for a while, and they are encouraged to rest. During this period, the patient's blood pressure, pulse, and blood oxygen levels are regularly monitored. Additionally, medication may be administered to prevent possible complications.

In addition, various measures are taken for patients to recover appropriately after coronary angiography. These measures include avoiding excessive physical activities, quitting smoking and alcohol consumption, following a healthy diet, and engaging in regular exercise.

Avoiding excessive physical activities: The body needs rest after the procedure. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid excessive physical activities. Light exercises like slow-paced walking can be done, but heavy lifting or strenuous exercises should be avoided.

Quitting smoking and alcohol consumption: Smoking and alcohol consumption negatively impact heart and vascular health. Patients are advised to quit smoking and alcohol completely after coronary angiography. This helps accelerate the recovery process and reduces the risk of complications.

Following a healthy diet: Balanced and healthy nutrition is crucial for heart and vascular health. Patients are recommended to limit their intake of salt, fat, and sugar and follow a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and protein.

The recovery process after coronary angiography can vary for each patient. Following the doctor's recommendations and the steps to be followed after the procedure will positively impact the patient's health. Therefore, it is important for patients to strictly adhere to the doctor's instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Coronary Angiography?

Coronary angiography is a medical imaging procedure used to examine the coronary arteries and blood flow. During this procedure, special dye is given through a catheter to obtain images of the coronary arteries.

How is the Coronary Angiography Procedure Performed?

The coronary angiography procedure is performed under local anesthesia. A catheter is placed in the groin or arm artery and advanced to the proximity of the coronary arteries. Then, a special dye is injected through the catheter to visualize the coronary arteries using an X-ray machine.

What is Balloon Angioplasty and How is it Applied?

Balloon angioplasty is a procedure used to widen a blocked or narrowed artery. During this procedure, a small balloon catheter is advanced to the narrowed area through a catheter, and the balloon is inflated to widen the vessel.

What is the success rate of Balloon Angioplasty?

The success of balloon angioplasty depends on various factors, and the procedure is usually successful in opening narrowed arteries. The procedure is performed by an experienced cardiologist who selects the appropriate balloon size to widen the vessel effectively.