Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), also known as coronary angioplasty is a procedure used to treat critical narrowings in the coronary arteries are caused by plaque buildup thus opening narrowed or clogged arteries.

Our team of American and UK trained cardiologists utilize this procedure for patients who have experienced a heart attack, or have symptoms caused by the narrowing in the coronary artery, to open a blocked artery and relieve symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath.


How is the procedure performed?

The PCI procedure is performed by inserting a catheter into an artery in the patient’s arm or leg. Fluids or medications such as anticoagulants are administered through the IV catheter to trigger blood thinning. The patient’s oxygen levels, heart rate, blood pressure, and pulse are constantly monitored during the procedure.

Once the location of the blockage has been identified with the help of X-ray images called angiograms, a small balloon, usually with the use of a stent, is inflated at the site of the blockage to widen the blocked artery. Once the artery has been stretched open at the site of narrowing, the balloon is deflated and removed along with the catheter while the stent remains in the artery, preventing future blockages.

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