Context
A debate over unnecessary angioplasty procedures in Kerala has raised concerns about the overuse of coronary stents. Doctors emphasise that angioplasty can save lives during heart attacks, but not every patient with a blocked coronary artery requires the procedure.
Explanation
- The coronary arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle, helping it function properly.
- Over time, fatty deposits called plaques may accumulate inside these arteries, narrowing them. This condition is called Coronary Artery Disease (CAD).
- If a plaque ruptures and a blood clot suddenly blocks blood flow, it can cause a heart attack (myocardial infarction).
- Coronary angiography is an imaging test that uses X-rays and contrast dye to identify blockages.
- Angioplasty uses a small balloon to widen a narrowed or blocked artery and restore blood flow.
- A stent is a tiny mesh tube placed inside the artery to keep it open.
- During certain heart attacks, emergency angioplasty can be life-saving.
- However, patients with stable coronary artery disease may be treated with medicines and lifestyle changes without requiring stenting.
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Coronary Stenting: Clinical Guidelines and Patient Safety