Angiography-Angioplasty

Angiography is an invasive method for imaging coronary arteries that can be performed through the leg (femoral artery) or through the wrist (radial artery).

In fact, this method provides information about the blood vessels so that the surgeon can make a better treatment decision.

Each of these methods of angiography (through the arm or leg) has its advantages but today due to advancements in angiography equipment and skills radial angiography has become a popular method.

In radial angiography the patient does not necessarily need to stay in bed afterward and can walk.

The probability of complications after radial angiography is lower and the patient feels more comfortable.

Radial angiography is possible in most cases but in special circumstances and depending on the physician's discretion, femoral angiography may be performed.

When should angiography be performed?

This procedure is performed when initial diagnostic tests such as stress tests (exercise test, cardiac scan, stress echo) suggest a high suspicion of coronary artery blockage or when CT angiography shows severe and suspicious narrowing.

Otherwise, it is not recommended as a primary diagnostic method without initial tests.

Angioplasty

After angiography if severe and significant coronary artery stenosis is detected the physician will perform revascularization to open the blocked vessel.

Depending on the severity of stenosis and the type/number of affected vessels one of the following three treatment methods may be selected:

1. Continued medical therapy

2. Angioplasty with balloon and stent

3. Open-heart surgery (CABG)

The treatment choice depends on multiple factors including stenosis severity, number of affected vessels, lesion location, diabetes status, history of myocardial infarction, heart failure, etc.

If balloon angioplasty with stent placement is selected, it can be performed during the same session immediately after angiography.

Peripheral Angioplasty

Peripheral angioplasty is performed for patients with obstructed or stenosed leg arteries, particularly in diabetic patients in specific cases.

Leg arteries differ from coronary arteries and other body vessels and we only perform peripheral angioplasty under specific circumstances.

When is Peripheral Angioplasty Performed?

1. Patients with claudication (leg pain while walking).

2. Diabetic patients with non-healing foot ulcers despite medical treatment and wound care.

In these cases restoring blood flow through angioplasty improves symptoms and promotes ulcer healing.

Peripheral angioplasty can be performed using balloons or stents depending on the location and type of affected vessel.

Post-Angioplasty Care Instructions

• Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting or intense activity for several days.

• Drink plenty of fluids (water).

• Avoid baths, swimming or hot tubs for at least a week.

• Keep the wound site dry and clean (do not apply creams/ointments).

• Consult your doctor about medication adjustments.

• Avoid travel, air flights and driving for a few days.

Angioplasty & Advanced Support (iVAC)

For high-risk cardiac patients, traditional angioplasty may be dangerous. Instead, iVAC-assisted angioplasty a cutting-edge technique can be used.

The iVAC device acts as a temporary artificial heart, stabilizing circulation during the procedure. First performed by Dr. Vaghefi & Day Hospital specialists.