Angioplasty

What is it?

Coronary angioplasty (balloon dilatation) is a minimally invasive procedure done to improve symptoms of blocked arteries, which occur when fatty deposits (plaque) accumulate in the arteries (atherosclerosis) and cause them to harden.  In this procedure, a balloon catheter is inserted into a blood vessel and the balloon is inflated to crush the plaque against the artery wall, thus opening the blood vessel and improving blood flow. The balloon is then deflated and withdrawn. To decrease the chance of the artery closing again, a stent (small, wire mesh tube) may be inserted during the procedure.

Angioplasty is typically done to relieve symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath and heart attack.  For patients with weak heart muscles or complications (e.g. diabetes, multiple blockages, etc.), surgical treatment may be a better option.  Our multidisciplinary team of cardiologists, cardiovascular surgeons and other specialists can evaluate patients and determine the best treatment plan.

The Loyola difference

Loyola is a nationally recognized leader in cardiac care. U.S. News & World Report ranked us 18th in the nation for cardiology and heart surgery in 2012, making this our 10th year in the top 50.

Learn more about our performance outcomes.