Carotid Angioplasty

Preparation

• You have to start with scheduling your appointment, during which your overall health will be assessed. Doctors will go through your medical history and recommend further investigations to confirm the diagnosis.
• You will need to undergo certain imaging tests, such as Ultrasound, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Carotid Angiography, to confirm the diagnosis and curate the best treatment plan.
• You will be briefed about the procedure and its pros and cons. This is done to make sure that you are prepared for the procedure both physically and mentally.
• It is important to inform your doctor about all the current medications as you may be required to stop taking these temporarily or make recommended adjustments in the dosage.
• You will be required to fast for a couple of hours prior to the procedure. This is important for alleviating the risks of vomiting and nausea. You can take small sips of water if needed, only after consulting your doctor.

What does the Procedure involve?

• The procedure can take anywhere between an hour or two. It involves the use of anaesthesia, to make sure that you do not feel any pain or discomfort. Your vitals will be taken and recorded.
• An intravenous line will be started to administer fluid and medication. Doctors will place tiny electrode pads on your chest to simultaneously assess your heart rate.
• You will be asked to lie down on the surgical table and the incisional site will be prepared. This is followed by making a tiny incision to introduce the sheath, to pave for introducing the catheter
• Using a thin guide wire, the catheter is slowly moved forward and guided towards the blocked section of the carotid artery. This is done using x-ray imaging guidance.
• In order to get a better view, doctors may use a contrast dye material, which is injected into the body, with the help of the catheter.
• This is followed by the administration of an embolic protection device or a tiny filter that helps to remove the unwanted substances that are scrapped off from the surface of the carotid arteries.
• The catheter has an inflatable balloon fitted on one of its ends. In case the blockage is stubborn, doctors may inflate the balloon to open the blocked artery and allow blood to flow more effectively.
• In some cases, doctors may even place a small metallic stent in the artery to offer enough support to alleviate the risks of restenosis.

What follows the Procedure?

• Soon after the procedure, you will be taken to the recovery room where you will be keenly observed. Once you gain consciousness, you will be shifted to your room
• Even after the procedure, you will need to lie still for a couple of hours. Doctors may recommend an ultrasound of the carotid artery
• Most patients are discharged within 1 to 2 days. However, some people may take a little longer, depending on the severity of their condition
• You will be required to take the medication recommended by your doctor and follow all the instructions
• Regular follow-ups and visits are very crucial to ensure swift and hassle-free recovery