Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) / Coronary Angioplasty

    • Purpose: Treats narrowed or obstructed coronary arteries by restoring blood flow.
    • Procedure: During PCI, a catheter with a small balloon at its tip is inserted through an artery in the groin or arm and guided to the narrowed section of the coronary artery. Once positioned, the balloon is inflated to compress the plaque against the artery walls, widening the artery to improve blood flow. In most cases, a stent—a small mesh tube—is then placed at the site of the blockage to keep the artery open long-term.
    • Note: The information provided here applies to elective PCI procedures without extraordinary circumstances. However, the specifics may vary based on individual patient factors, such as the presence of multiple blockages, underlying heart conditions, or complications that may arise during the procedure. In some cases, the procedure may be more complex, requiring additional interventions or extended hospital stays.

      Inpatient/Outpatient
      PCI is typically performed as an inpatient procedure, particularly in cases where multiple arteries are treated, the patient has other underlying health conditions, or the risk of complications is higher. Patients may need to stay in the hospital for monitoring after the procedure, especially if it is part of an emergency treatment or if complications arise during the intervention.

      Hospital Stay Duration
      Most patients undergoing PCI are monitored for several hours post-procedure. Depending on the complexity of the procedure and the patient's overall condition, a hospital stay of one or more nights may be required to ensure a safe recovery and to monitor for any potential complications.

      Type of Anesthesia
      Local anesthesia is used to numb the area where the catheter is inserted, typically in the groin or arm. Mild sedation is often administered to keep the patient comfortable during the procedure. In certain cases, such as with patients who may not tolerate the procedure well, general anesthesia may be considered.

      Travel After Procedure
      Travel is generally not recommended for at least 24 hours after PCI, particularly if sedation was used. Patients are advised to consult with their healthcare provider before planning any travel, especially long-distance or air travel, to ensure they are fit for travel and that there are no immediate post-procedure complications.

      Pre-procedure Preparation
      Patients are usually required to fast for several hours before the procedure. They may also need to temporarily stop certain medications, especially blood thinners, under the guidance of their healthcare provider to minimize the risk of bleeding during the procedure.

      Procedure Duration
      The PCI procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours, although this can vary depending on the number of blockages being treated and the complexity of the case.

      Recovery Time
      Recovery time varies, but most patients can resume light activities within a few days. Full recovery, including returning to normal physical activity, generally takes about a week, though this may vary depending on the patient’s overall health and the specifics of their treatment.

      Estimated Cost
      The cost of PCI can vary depending on the hospital, geographic location, and the specific details of the procedure, such as the number of stents placed. For more detailed cost information, patients should contact their healthcare provider directly.

      Post-procedure Care
      Post-procedure care includes monitoring the insertion site for signs of infection, swelling, or bleeding. Patients will also be prescribed antiplatelet medications to prevent blood clots in the stent and should follow up with their healthcare provider for further instructions on lifestyle modifications, medication management, and future appointments.