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What are Angioplasty and Stenting?
Coronary stents are used during angioplasty procedures. A stent is a small, expandable metal mesh coil that is placed into a newly opened area of the artery to keep it from narrowing or closing.
During this procedure, a small incision is created in the groin to gain access to the artery. The physician will then thread a balloon-tipped catheter through the incision site and arterial system to the leg artery that is narrowed or blocked. Once the balloon is positioned under the plaque, it is inflated to break apart and compress the plaque and widen the blood vessel to improve blood flow. In certain cases, the physician may also insert a stent to keep the artery open following angioplasty.
Successful angioplasty procedures have great results. Approximately 60-70% of patients who undergo an angioplasty have patent vessels that remain open due to adequate blood flow to the legs for 2 years after the procedure.
The initial angioplasty failure rate for patients with leg artery disease is about 10%. Failure may occur when the catheter is unable to move through the blockage or a weakened artery collapses after angioplasty and cannot be kept open.
Not all artery diseases can be treated with angioplasty. For more advanced forms of peripheral artery disease or critical limb ischemia, more invasive procedures may be needed. Your provider will discuss the best way to treat your condition based on your circumstances.
What is Atherectomy?
Atherectomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove plaque buildup and open narrow or blocked arteries in those with peripheral artery disease (PAD).
During this procedure, your provider will utilize a catheter equipped with a sharp blade or laser to cut or scrape out the hard plaque.
What is Bypass Surgery?
Bypass surgery corrects narrowed arteries by creating a bypass around the section of the artery that is blocked. Healthy arteries are smooth and unobstructed inside, but they may become blocked through a process known as atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries.
As we age, a sticky substance called plaque can collect and build up in the walls of the arteries. Plaque is made up of cholesterol, calcium, and fibrous tissues. As plaque continues to collect, the arteries can become narrow and stiff. As the process progresses, blood vessels may eventually no longer meet the oxygen demands of the muscles or organs, and symptoms may develop.
During bypass surgery, your vascular surgeon will create a new pathway for blood flow through a graft. A graft may be made up of a portion of one of your veins, or a man-made synthetic tube that is connected above and below the blockage to allow blood to pass around it.
Providers
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about angioplasty, stenting, atherectomy, and bypass surgery, please contact South Florida Vascular Associates by giving us a call or filling out our online form. We serve the greater Southeast Florida areas with locations in Coconut Creek, Boynton Beach, and Plantation, FL.