Coronary Angioplasty

Coronary angioplasty is a procedure used to widen blocked or narrowed coronary arteries, the main blood vessels supplying the heart. The term 'angioplasty' means using a balloon to stretch open a narrowed or blocked artery. However, most modern angioplasty procedures also involve inserting a short wire-mesh tube, called a stent, into the artery during the procedure. The stent is left in place permanently to allow blood to flow more freely (NHS Choices). This book is a complete guide to the practice of coronary angioplasty for practising cardiologists and trainees. Beginning with an introduction to the evolution of the technique and the fundamentals of stent design, each of the following chapters provides in depth detail on angioplasty procedures for different disorders. The final sections discuss potential complications, rehabilitation, outcomes, and the future of angioplasty. This comprehensive text is highly illustrated with clinical photographs, diagrams and tables to enhance learning. Key Points Comprehensive guide to coronary angioplasty for clinicians and trainees Describes the complete evolution of the technique, from its beginnings to future developments Covers angioplasty procedures for many different disorders Highly illustrated with clinical photographs, diagrams and tables