Peripheral Angioplasty and Stenting

Preparation

• The first step is thorough consultation, during which your overall health will be assessed. Doctors will perform a physical examination and go through your medical history.
• A series of tests may be needed for a more detailed assessment. These include magnetic resonance imaging, computerized tomography scan and X-rays. These help the doctors to plan your treatment with a more personalized approach.
• Your doctors will explain the procedure to you and brief you about the potential risks and benefits. You may ask questions to clear all your doubts and concerns.
• It is important to inform your doctor if you are taking any medication as the dosage might have to be altered temporarily.
• Make sure your doctor is well aware of any other medical condition or chronic disease that you have.
• You need to abstain from consuming any solids or liquids, for a couple of hours prior to the surgery. You will be informed about the same by your doctor or assigned nurse.

What does the Procedure involve?

• The procedure can take anywhere around an hour or two. It involves the use of sedatives and anaesthesia to ensure you do not feel any pain or discomfort.
• Your vitals will be checked and noted down, and an intravenous line will be started for administering fluids and medication. Doctors will then stick tiny electrode patches on your chest to closely monitor your heartbeats.
• The surgical site is prepared and a tiny incision is made to introduce the sheath. This serves as the entry point for the catheter, which is a tiny, flexible tube, fitted with a balloon on one of its ends.
• Doctors use detailed imaging guidance and a guidewire to carefully move the catheter towards the blocked section of the peripheral artery.
• Once the catheter is in the right position. Doctors carefully inflate the balloon, to open the blocked artery and restore the flow of blood. If doctors feel the need, a stent may be implanted within the affected section of the artery to prevent any blockage in future.
• The balloon is deflated and carefully removed along with the catheter and sheath. The incision is then closed.

What follows the Procedure?

• After the procedure is done, the patient is taken to the recovery area, from where you will be shifted to your room after gaining consciousness.
• Your vitals will be noted from time to time to ensure there are no complications. A nurse will be assigned to take care of you and make sure you get your medication and nutritional fluids on time.
• It is normal to experience soreness and discomfort at the site of incision for a few days. This can be managed by taking the pain medication prescribed by your doctor.
• Patients are generally discharged within a day or two, after thorough evaluation and briefing about medication, daily activities and diet.
• Regular follow-ups and visits are very crucial to ensure swift and hassle-free recovery.