Name of the Procedure:

Common Names: Balloon Angioplasty, Transluminal Angioplasty
Technical/Medical Term: Catheter, Transluminal Angioplasty, Non-Laser (HCPCS Code: C1725)

Summary

Balloon angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to widen narrowed or blocked blood vessels, typically arteries. A small balloon attached to a catheter is inserted into the blood vessel and inflated at the site of the blockage, helping to restore normal blood flow.

Purpose

Medical Conditions Addressed: Angina, Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), and conditions involving narrowed blood vessels.
Goals: To alleviate symptoms like chest pain and improve blood flow, which can enhance physical activity levels and overall quality of life.

Indications

Symptoms: Chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and leg pain while walking.
Conditions: Coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and certain types of vascular blockage.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions: Patients may need to fast for 6-8 hours before the procedure. Medication adjustments, particularly blood thinners, might be required.
• Diagnostic Tests: Pre-procedural assessments may include blood tests, EKG, and imaging studies like an angiogram.

Procedure Description

1. Insertion: A catheter with a deflated balloon is inserted through the skin into the blood vessel, typically via the groin or arm.
2. Navigation: The catheter is navigated to the site of the blockage with the help of imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy.
3. Inflation: The balloon is inflated at the site of the blockage, compressing the plaque against the artery walls.
4. Deflation and Removal: After the artery is widened, the balloon is deflated and the catheter is removed.

Tools/Equipment: Catheter, balloon, imaging technology (fluoroscopy).
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia at the insertion site and often mild sedation to relax the patient.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours.

Setting

Performed in a hospital, usually in a specialized catheterization lab.

Personnel

• Primary: Interventional cardiologist or vascular surgeon.
• Support: Nurses, radiologic technologists, and in some cases, an anesthesiologist.

Risks and Complications

Common Risks: Bruising at the insertion site, mild allergic reactions to contrast dye.
Rare Complications: Blood vessel damage, heart attack, stroke, and bleeding. Complications are managed through medications and, if necessary, secondary procedures.

Benefits

• Immediate: Relief of symptoms like chest pain and improved walking ability.
• Long-term: Reduced risk of heart attack or limb amputation, improved quality of life.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Patients may need to lie flat for a few hours post-procedure to prevent bleeding.
• Instructions: Avoid heavy lifting and intense physical activity for several days. Follow-up appointments to monitor progress.

Alternatives

• Medication: Statins, blood thinners, and other cardiovascular drugs.
• Surgical: Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).
• Non-surgical: Lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise).

Pros and Cons: Balloon angioplasty is less invasive with quicker recovery compared to surgery but may not be as durable in some cases.

Patient Experience

• During: Mild discomfort or pressure when the balloon is inflated. Sedation helps manage discomfort.
• After: Some bruising and tenderness at the catheter entry site. Pain management with over-the-counter pain relievers as needed.