Angioplasty: Common Questions

Will it hurt?

The general consensus among patients is that angioplasty is a sometimes uncomfortable, but not painful, procedure. You may feel some twinges in your chest when the balloon is inflated, but once the blockage is compressed, the pain should disappear. You also may feel nauseous, feel your heart skip, or have a headache during the procedure; these are all normal, brief side effects.

Let your doctor know whatever symptoms you are feeling during the procedure. You will be on an IV line throughout the procedure, and can be given medicine as needed for pain or discomfort. You also may be given additional sedatives during the procedure so that you are able to remain motionless, but awake.

Can my spouse or friend be with me?

The procedure must take place in a germ-free environment, so all medical personnel will be wearing surgical scrubs. No observers will be permitted. Friends and family usually remain in a waiting room near the catheterization laboratory. Ask your doctor about the specifics for your hospital.

Will it hurt afterward?

You will probably feel some discomfort on the day of, and following, the procedure. Pain medication is available, and you should let your doctor or nurse know if you are experiencing additional discomfort.

Do I stay at the hospital?

You will need to rest quietly in a recovery room for a few hours after the procedure, and then moved to a regular hospital room. You can generally go home within 24 hours, if your blood tests, electrocardiogram and blood pressure are normal.

When can I eat food again?

If the procedure is successful, you will be able to eat again shortly in recovery.

When can I walk again?

The catheter usually remains in your groin area for 12 hours to 24 hours in case a second, emergency procedure is required. Because of this, you will have to keep your leg immobile, so you must remain in bed for at least this period.

When can I resume normal activity such as sexual activity, driving, working and exercise?

In most cases, there are few restrictions placed on activity, pending an evaluation by your doctor.

Am I going to have to be on special medication afterward?

If you have received a stent, you will be prescribed an anti-clotting medication for several months. You can expect to be on high dose statins to control your cholesterol, even if it has not been terribly high.

Glycoprotein IIb/IIa receptor blockers, aspirin, clopidogrel, ticlopidine, or heparin may be part of your drug regimen.

You also may receive special medication to help your arteries heal. Depending on your condition and health history prior to the procedure, your doctor may prescribe additional cholesterol-lowering medications or other new medications.

How long will this last? Will I need the procedure again?

A recurring blockage (restenosis) occurs in about one-third of the successful angioplasty procedures performed this occurs far less frequently when a stent is inserted. A doctor might choose to do additional angioplasty, add a stent if it was not installed previously, or recommend bypass surgery.

How often will I see my doctor after this?

Following this procedure, you will need to see your doctor for an evaluation and possible stress test to measure how effectively the blockage was eliminated. You will be encouraged to exercise regularly and your doctor will want to see you several times a year to make sure no more blockages have occurred.

Could this have been avoided?

While some of the causes (age, gender, family history) of coronary artery disease are out of your control, there are lifestyle choices that often contribute to blockages. Some of these are obesity, smoking and physical inactivity. While these factors can contribute to your condition, they can be modified. Receiving appropriate treatment for other cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol can also reduce the likelihood of developing severe coronary blockages.

Can future procedures be avoided?

Eliminating restenosis is not completely within the patient's control. Under ideal circumstances including a low-fat diet, use of medications and exercise, additional plaque and blockages should not form. However, restenosis can occur for a variety of reasons, some of which have to do with the artery's ability to heal or the strength of the arterial walls.

The best advice is to follow your doctor's instructions and be vigilant about following up with stress tests. This will ensure that future blockages are detected and treated quickly. If you experience any chest pain or discomfort, contact your doctor and seek medical help immediately.