| Before we talk about treatment, let's start with a discussion about the human body and about your medical condition.
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Your doctor has recommended that you undergo a balloon angioplasty with a stent implant. But what does that actually mean? |
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The heart is located in the center of the chest. It's job is to keep blood continually circulating throughout the body. |
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The blood vessels that supply the body with oxygen-rich blood are called arteries. |
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The arteries that supplies blood to the heart muscle itself are called coronary arteries. |
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Sometimes, these blood vessels can narrow or become blocked by plaque deposits, restricting normal blood flow. |
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In simple terms, a balloon angioplasty with stent insertion is a procedure used to increase the amount of blood flowing through the coronary artery. |
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During a balloon angioplasty, a heart specialist will insert a thin tube into an artery in your arm or leg and gently guide it towards the problem area in your heart. |
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Once the tube is in place, a small balloon is briefly inflated in order to widen the narrowed artery. |
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A short length of mesh tubing called a stent is then inserted into the newly widened artery. |
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During and after the procedure, your doctor will take x-rays in order to monitor your progress. |
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