What is peripheral angioplasty?
Peripheral angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to open blocked or narrowed arteries in the peripheral circulation. It involves the use of a balloon catheter to widen the artery and may include placing a stent to keep the artery open.
Why is peripheral angioplasty performed?
Peripheral angioplasty is performed to improve blood flow in arteries that are blocked or narrowed due to conditions like atherosclerosis (plaque buildup). It is often used to relieve symptoms such as:
- Pain or cramping in the legs (claudication)
- Numbness or weakness in the legs
- Non-healing wounds or ulcers on the legs or feet
How is the procedure performed?
The procedure involves:
- Preparation: You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the procedure. A local anesthetic is applied to numb the area where the catheter will be inserted, typically the groin or the arm.
- Catheter Insertion: A thin, flexible catheter is inserted into a blood vessel and guided to the blocked artery using X-ray imaging.
- Balloon Inflation: A balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated to compress the plaque and widen the artery.
- Stent Placement (if needed): A stent (a small mesh tube) may be placed in the artery to keep it open.
- Completion: The balloon and catheter are removed, and the insertion site is closed.
What should I expect during the procedure?
You might feel some pressure or mild discomfort when the balloon is inflated, but the procedure is usually not painful. Some patients may experience a warm sensation from the contrast dye used in the procedure.
What are the risks associated with peripheral angioplasty?
Risks include:
- Bleeding or bruising at the catheter insertion site
- Infection
- Allergic reaction to the contrast dye
- Blood vessel damage or rupture
- Re-narrowing of the artery (restenosis)
- Blood clots or embolism