What is an angioplasty (PCI) procedure?
Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) is a specialized procedure to open up a coronary artery which is narrowed due to plaque build-up. A fine tube, or catheter, is threaded from the artery in the groin, up to the site of the blockage in the heart. The balloon-tip of the catheter is inflated to press the plaque back against the wall of the artery. When the catheter is removed, the artery remains open wider than before, allowing more blood and oxygen to get to the heart muscle. In some cases, a tiny wire coil, or stent, is inserted with the catheter to help stabilize the newly opened area of plaque. Stents are not necessary for all patients and the Cardiologist makes the decision during the procedure. Additional information can be found in our Cardiac Catheterization & Angioplasty Patient Information Booklet.
