Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), also known as coronary angioplasty, is a procedure used to treat coronary artery disease (CAD), which is a condition that occurs when the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle, become narrow or blocked. PCI is a minimally invasive procedure that involves using a catheter (a thin, flexible tube) to access the coronary arteries through a small puncture in the skin. A balloon catheter is then passed through the catheter and inflated to widen the narrowed or blocked section of the artery. A stent, which is a small metal mesh tube, may also be placed in the artery to help keep it open.
PCI is typically performed to relieve symptoms of CAD, such as angina (chest pain) and shortness of breath, and to improve blood flow to the heart. It can also be used to treat acute coronary syndromes, such as a heart attack, and to prevent further heart damage. The procedure is usually performed by a cardiologist, a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of heart conditions, in a hospital setting.
PCI is generally considered to be a safe and effective treatment for CAD, but as with any medical procedure, it carries some risks, including bleeding, infection, and damage to the blood vessels or heart. The specific risks and benefits of PCI will depend on a person’s individual circumstances, such as the severity of their CAD and their overall health. It is important to discuss all treatment options with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for a particular individual