Coronary Angioplasty (PTCA)

PTCA is a percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty which means that a catheter (a long hollow tube) with a balloon at the tip is inserted into the coronary artery and the balloon inflated to open a blood flow restriction. A PTCA is performed when the coronary artery is found to be blocked and needs to be opened up for better blood flow.

When blood flow is restricted, the body cannot receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen, although not all coronary artery identifies can be treated with a PTCA. The experts at Stanislaus Cardiology can advise the patient on the best options available.

A PTCA is typically done during a hospital stay:

• Clothes and jewelry are removed and a gown put on

• The bladder must be emptied

• An IV is started in the hand or arm

• The patient is supine on the procedure table

• An ECG monitor is attached and all vital signs are monitored during the procedure

• IV sedation is administered and a local anesthetic placed where the incision will be made

• The angioplasty catheter is inserted through the sheath and advanced through the heart and on into the coronary arteries. Fluoroscopy is used during this phase of the procedure.

• Contrast dye is injected

• A series of x-rays are obtained

• If a narrowed artery is seen, the balloon will be used to open it up and then obtain measurements. This could be done more than once

• The catheter is removed, and the insertion site is closed