Interventional Radiology: Arterial
Arterial Angioplasty / Stent Placement

Angioplasty is a procedure which can be performed during an angiogram to open arteries or veins, which are blocked or narrowed by plaque. Arterial angioplasty procedures are often used by radiologists to non-surgically open vessels in the extremities, kidneys and bowel.

Venous angioplasty is mostly used to maintain dialysis access in patients with renal failure, but is sometimes used in patients with symptomatic venous blockage. Angioplasty in general allows inflation of a small balloon with or without a stent (small tube, which supports the vessel in an open position) within a vessel to expand it, correct blockage and improve blood flow.

For arterial angioplasty procedure, an angiogram / arteriogram (x-rays of arteries) is performed. Once blocked or narrowed vessel(s) are visualized on an angiogram, a balloon tipped catheter is inserted into the blocked artery and guided under x-ray to the area of concern. The balloon is inflated to disrupt the blockage in the vessel pressing plaque against the vessel wall and enabling blood flow.

In some circumstances, a stent is mounted on the balloon tipped catheter. When the balloon is inflated, the stent is expanded and adheres (permanently) to the walls of the vessel to keep it open. The catheter is removed and firm pressure is applied for 10 to 20 minutes until bleeding stops.