Angioplasty is a corrective surgery procedure for people having blockages in the coronary arteries in their heart. The Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty is a procedure for improving functioning of heart through regulated blood supply.
If you are advised to undergo a Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty, it is a not cause of serious concern. However, few precautions need to be exercised for preparing for the actual surgery day:
The Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty or PTCA is also termed as Percutaneous Coronary Intervention or PCI. It is a surgical procedure which entails inserting an inflated balloon through a catheter for opening the blockage formed in a coronary artery which has become narrow as after effects of atherosclerosis. The procedure continues with placement of stents to keep the blood vessels open post surgery and facilitate flow of blood to the heart.
In your recovery period, absolute rest is essential. Neither driving nor doing any rigorous chore is allowed. The catheter insertion site needs to be kept clean. The cardiac rehabilitation program planned by the hospital should be attended. Diet and exercise regimen should be followed diligently for years to come. Blood thinning medications also should be taken on time. These prevent blood clots from developing on stent placed during surgery.
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience even one of the following signs post a PTCA surgery :