Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA)

The method of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) was discovered back in the 1980s of the 20th century. This technique was developed to remove a narrowed section of a coronary vessel to ensure adequate blood flow. Usually, this operation is performed in patients with acute myocardial infarction after thrombolytic therapy, or in situations where it is unavailable. In addition, PTCA is performed in patients with ischemic heart disease, when chest pain increases with exercise, dyspnea and other manifestations are noted.

In the past, many cardiac surgeons performed aortocoronary bypass surgery, now doctors use an alternative method — CTCA. Before angioplasty, the patient undergoes a complete medical examination. In the clinic «Heart Center in Isar» in Germany, a thorough examination is carried out, which includes blood tests, urine, coagulogram, as well as ECG, ultrasound of blood vessels and many other procedures. All medications taken are discussed with the attending physician, as their effects may cause undesirable reactions during surgery.

Special attention is paid to antidiabetic drugs and agents affecting blood coagulation. The operation is performed through the femoral artery under local anesthesia. A special needle is inserted into the artery, after which a catheter with a balloon is wound up to the place of narrowing of the vessel. With the help of such a catheter it is possible to perform coronary angiography during surgery, which allows to immediately assess the state of the vessels and adjust the surgical tactics.

After angiography, the cardiac surgeon will be able to see where the narrowing is and be able to guide the tip of the catheter behind it. Angiography also allows the surgeon to assess which type of catheter is needed for the operation. X-rays are taken throughout the surgery to see the location of the catheter. Once the catheter is positioned behind the narrowing of the vessel, the doctor begins to advance the balloon through the vessel. The balloon is inflated at the site of atherosclerotic plaque, as if crushing it. In this case, the lumen of the vessel increases, which contributes to the normalization of blood flow. This operation can be complemented by stenting, when after angioplasty a stent is inserted and works as a framework in the affected vessel.

Complications such as allergic reactions, bleeding, and damage to heart structures are possible. In addition, there may be rhythm disturbances during the procedure. However, the X-ray operating room has all necessary resuscitation equipment, which is designed for rapid treatment of emergency conditions.

Thanks to percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty, the symptoms of coronary heart disease are significantly reduced, chest pain becomes less frequent and patients feel much better. However, it is possible that atherosclerotic plaque may recur in the future, and to avoid this, it is necessary to quit bad habits, change diet and increase physical activity.

The operation should be performed by a highly qualified cardiac surgeon with extensive experience.

Cost of services

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