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Synopsis

Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty, sometimes referred to as coronary angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure for correcting blockage in the arteries. PTCA primarily helps in managing the symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease which is characterised by plaque deposits in the arteries.

 

Gleneagles Hospital is the best angioplasty hospital in Hyderabad. You can fully rely on the doctors of Gleneagles Hospital for getting a Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty done.

Introduction

Blockage in the arteries can restrict the blood flow and can lead to severe health complications like a heart attack or a stroke. Generally, the symptoms of a blocked artery are mild initially so the patients cannot identify the blockage in an early stage. Generally, people tend to notice the symptoms when the blockage is already reached a matured stage. Earlier, an open-heart surgery or a bypass surgery was the only option for treating the blockage in the arteries. Procedures like Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty are a great alternative to traditional methods for eliminating the blockages and restoring blood flow. This is primarily due to the minimally invasive approach of a PTCA procedure.

Understanding Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) develops when a lot of fatty deposits or plaque accumulates in the arteries. This build-up narrows the blood pathway in the arteries, further limiting the blood flow. Some of the common causes of CAD include:

 

  • High cholesterol levels
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Diabetes
  • Smoking
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Poor dietary habits
  • Genetic predisposition

 

The symptoms that a patient with CAD might experience can vary broadly. Some common symptoms like angina (chest pain), fatigue, shortness of breath, and heart palpitations are commonly seen. When left untreated, the plaque build-up can become severe over time and can cause myocardial infarction (heart attack) or heart failure. PTCA is one of the most effective solutions for treating CAD and to restore normal blood flow for patients with significant artery blockage.

Understanding Coronary Artery Disease

Evolution of PTCA Over The Years

Coronary Angioplasty has confronted major paradigm shifts in recent years. It was introduced by Dr Andreas Gruntzig in 1977. Since then, it has undergone significant advancements.

 

  • 1977 - The first successful PTCA procedure was performed.
    The 1980s - The introduction of bare-metal stents was done to reduce the risk of artery collapse.
  • 1990s - Drug-eluting stents (DES) were developed to prevent restenosis (re-narrowing of the artery).
  • 2000s - Improvements were made in catheter technology and imaging techniques, and the use of bioresorbable stents was prevalent.
  • Present Day - Enhanced safety measures are followed, personalised treatment plans are provided to the patients, and the introduction of AI-assisted diagnostics has further improved PTCA outcomes.

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Step-by-Step Procedure of PTCA

PTCA, also known as coronary angioplasty, is a minimally invasive procedure designed to open blocked coronary arteries. It involves inserting a thin catheter attached to a deflated balloon through a blood vessel to the blocked artery. Once the catheter is in place, the balloon is inflated to compress the plaque and widen the artery. This helps to restore the blood flow. In most cases, a stent (a small mesh tube) is placed to keep the artery open and prevent recurring narrowing.

 

The PTCA procedure follows a systematic approach:

 

  • Step 1: Pre-procedure Preparation - This step includes patient evaluation, assessing the medical history and performing imaging tests such as angiography, ECG, etc. Administration of blood thinners is prevented to reduce the chances of blood clot formation.
  • Step 2: Catheter Insertion - A small incision is made in the area to be treated. Generally, through the groin, wrist, or arm. The area is cleaned and shaved and the area is numbed with local anaesthesia. A thin catheter is then guided through the blood vessels to the blockage in the coronary artery.
  • Step 3: Balloon Inflation & Stent Placement - The balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated to widen the artery. A stent has to be placed to keep the artery open and ensure the blood flow is improved in the long term.
  • Step 4: Post-procedure Monitoring - The catheter is then carefully removed, and pressure is applied to prevent bleeding. After the procedure, the patients are monitored for any complications and ensure full proper healing before being discharged.

Benefits of PTCA

PTCA offers several advantages over traditional surgical interventions. A few of the key benefits of a Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Artery.

 

  • Minimally invasive: PTCA is a minimally invasive procedure and requires fewer incisions when compared to an open-heart surgery.
  • Quick recovery: Most patients can resume their normal activities within a few days of the procedure. Since it is less invasive, the patient needs less time to recover and get back to work.
  • Immediate symptom relief: As the procedure opens the blockage, the patients experience almost immediate relief from symptoms like chest pain and heart function is improved.
  • Lower risk of complications: Compared to bypass surgery or an open-heart surgery where the breastbone is removed. There are chances of complications. But, in the case of PTCA, all the work is done through a small incision. This significantly reduces the chances of complications.
  • Outpatient option: In some cases, where the blockage is minor, patients can be treated on an outpatient basis or can be discharged within 24 hours of the procedure.

Risks and Complications

While PTCA is generally safe, some potential risk factors should be considered before getting a procedure done. Some of them include:

 

  • Restenosis: There are chances that the arteries might narrow again over time.
  • Blood clots: At the site of catheter insertion, blood clots may form. They can also develop around the stent.
  • Bleeding or infection: If proper care is not taken, infections can occur at the catheter insertion site.
  • Heart attack or stroke: If any blood clot forms and is left undetected, it could lead to certain health complications like heart attack or stroke.
  • Allergic reactions: Allergic reactions can happen to the contrast dye that is used during angiography.

Post-Procedure Recovery & Lifestyle Modifications

Recovery after PTCA is as crucial as the procedure itself. To maintain heart health and prevent complications, you should follow the following post-procedure recovery measures.

 

  • Medication adherence - Following the advice of your cardiologist is vital for the success of your PTCA procedure. Blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and antihypertensives are to be avoided when going for a coronary angioplasty.
  • Healthy diet - It is crucial to adopt a healthy diet to prevent any further blockage. Strictly avoid any high-cholesterol food items and processed food. Low-fat, high-fibre, and heart-healthy meals should be taken.
  • Regular exercise - While strenuous exercise is to be avoided after a PTCA procedure, you can adopt moderate physical activity to strengthen the heart.
  • Smoking cessation - For heart patients, it is paramount to avoid tobacco to reduce the risk of restenosis, i.e., the re-narrowing of the operated arteries.
  • Routine check-ups - Once you get a Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty done, it is critical to get regular medical evaluations done to monitor heart health and prevent any further blockages.

Why Choose Gleneagles Hospital for PTCA?

Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty (PTCA) is a groundbreaking method that has revolutionised the treatment of coronary artery disease. It has become a popular choice among patients because of its minimally invasive nature, high success rate, and faster recovery time. While hazards persist, advances in medical technology have resulted in much better patient outcomes.

 

Choosing Gleneagles guarantees that patients receive the best possible treatment for their hearts from the best angioplasty doctors in Hyderabad. There are various reasons why Gleneagles Hospital is a top choice for PTCA. We have advanced catheterisation labs, and diagnostic instruments ensuring optimal results. From diagnosis to postoperative rehabilitation, Gleneagles Hospital provides a smooth treatment journey with holistic support. Therapies are tailored to each patient's demands, and the cardiologists provide personalised treatment plans and patient-centric approaches. Gleneagles Hospital has a proven track record of providing highly successful PTCA procedures and undoubtedly become the best angioplasty hospital in Hyderabad.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of PTCA at the best angioplasty hospital in Hyderabad​ like Gleneagles Hospitals?

The PTCA procedure generally takes around thirty minutes to two hours, depending on the complexity of the blockage and the technique used.

Is PTCA painful?

No, the patient is under anaesthesia, therefore no pain is felt during the procedure. 

 

However, patients might experience slight discomfort during balloon inflation.

Can PTCA completely cure coronary artery disease?

No, PTCA does not cure Coronary Artery Disease. However, it is an effective procedure for improving blood flow. Lifestyle modifications and regular medications are essential for ensuring long-term benefits.

When can I return to normal activities after a PTCA?

The recovery varies for every patient. However, it is observed that most patients can get back to their daily activities within a week. Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise are still not recommended.

How long does a stent last?

A stent is typically permanent. There are very few chances of getting a stent narrowed. Another stent has to be placed to maintain the proper heart function.

What is the success rate of PTCA?

The success rates of a Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty are generally above 90%. Most patients experience significant improvements in symptoms, enhancing their quality of life from the very day the procedure is done.

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