ANGIOGRAMS, ANGIOPLASTY AND CORONARY STENTS

An angiogram is an invasive procedure used to diagnose blockages in the coronary arteries. When a blockage is detected, an angioplasty is used to open narrowed arteries that are lined with plaque. The catheter is used to guide a small balloon to the affected artery. Once in place, the balloon is inflated and the pressure from the balloon presses against the artery wall to improve blood flow.

Coronary stents are small metal coils or mesh tubes that are inserted into a blocked artery to help keep it open so blood can flow to the heart. This procedure is used when fatty deposits are lining the arterial walls and blocking the flow of blood. This is more commonly known as coronary artery disease.