Coronary Angioplasty
Risks of an angioplasty
Source: NHS
In this topic (6)
As with all types of surgery, coronary angioplasty carries a risk of complications. However, the risk of serious problems is small.
Complications that can occur during or after an angioplasty include:
- Bleeding or bruising under the skin where the catheterwas inserted estimated to occur in more than one in every 20 cases
- Damage to the arterywhere thesheath was inserted estimated to occur in less than one in every 100 cases
- Allergic reaction to the contrast agent used during the procedure estimated to occur in less than one in every 100 cases
- Damage to an artery in the heart estimated to occur in less than one in every 350 cases
- Excessive bleeding requiring a Blood transfusion estimated to occur in less than one in every 100 cases
- Heart attack , stroke or death estimated to occur in less than one in every 100 cases
Who's most at risk?
Several factors increase your risk of experiencing these complications. These include:
- Your age the older you are, the higher the risk
- Whether the procedure was planned (for angina ),or is emergency treatment for or after a heart attack emergency treatment is always riskier because there's less time to plan it and the patient is already unwell
- Whether you have kidney disease the contrast agent used during an angioplasty can occasionally cause further damage to the kidneys
- Whether more than one coronary artery has become blocked this is known as multi-vessel disease
- Whether you have a history of serious heart disease , including heart failure
Your cardiology team can give you more information about your individual circumstances and level of risk.
Articles for Coronary Angioplasty
Alternatives to angioplasty and a stent
The most widely used surgical alternative to a coronary angioplasty is a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG). Which is usually recommended when multiple coronary arteries have become blocked and narrowed.
How is a coronary angioplasty carried out?
You will usually have an appointment to assess your health a few days before having a coronary angioplasty. you may also have blood tests and a general health check to ensure you're suitable for surgery.
Introduction
A coronary angioplasty is a procedure used to widen blocked or narrowed coronary arteries. If the flow of blood to the heart becomes restricted, it can lead to chest pain known as angina.
Patient story: "I suddenly felt like I was being kicked in the chest."
Lynn Connor had a coronary angioplasty after she had a heart attack. A quick diagnosis and treatment saved her life.
Recovering from an angioplasty
After having a planned (non-emergency) coronary angioplasty, you'll normally be able to leave hospital the same day or following day. Arrange for someone to take you home.
Risks of an angioplasty
As with all types of surgery, coronary angioplasty carries a risk of complications. However, the risk of serious problems is small. Your cardiology team can give you more information about your individual circumstances and level of risk.
