Angioplasty

What is Angioplasty?

Angioplasty, also known as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), is a minimally invasive procedure used to open narrowed or blocked coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle. During this procedure, a thin, flexible catheter with a balloon at its tip is guided to the narrowed section of the artery. When inflated, the balloon compresses the plaque against the artery wall, widening the vessel and improving blood flow. In most cases, a small mesh tube called a stent is then placed to keep the artery open. This life-saving procedure helps relieve symptoms of coronary artery disease such as chest pain (angina) and can prevent or treat heart attacks.

Procedure Details

During angioplasty, the interventional cardiologist makes a small incision in the groin, wrist, or arm to access an artery. Under X-ray guidance (fluoroscopy), a catheter is threaded through the arterial system to the coronary arteries. Contrast dye is injected to visualize blockages, and a guide wire is advanced across the narrowed section. A balloon catheter is then positioned at the blockage and inflated to compress the plaque. In most cases, a stent (a small mesh tube) is deployed to scaffold the artery open. Modern stents are often drug-eluting, releasing medication that prevents re-narrowing (restenosis). The procedure typically takes 30-90 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia with conscious sedation. Advanced techniques include rotational atherectomy for calcified lesions, intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) or optical coherence tomography (OCT) for precise imaging, and specialized approaches for chronic total occlusions.

Recovery Information

• Procedure Time: 30-90 MIN
• Back to Work: 3-7 DAYS
• Anesthetist: LOCAL/SEDATION
• Hospitalization Time: 1-2 DAYS
• Recovery Time: 1-2 WEEKS
• Stay Time: 5-7 days

Benefits

• Immediate improvement in blood flow to the heart muscle
• Relief from chest pain (angina) and other symptoms
• Less invasive alternative to coronary bypass surgery
• Shorter hospital stay and recovery time
• Reduced risk of heart attack or its complications
• Improved quality of life and exercise capacity
• Preservation of heart muscle function
• Quick return to normal activities

Why Choose Iran for Angioplasty

Iran offers numerous significant advantages for international patients seeking angioplasty procedures:

• Renowned Interventional Cardiologists: Iranian cardiac specialists are internationally recognized for their expertise in complex coronary interventions, with many having trained at prestigious global institutions
• Exceptional Cost Savings: Angioplasty in Iran costs 75-85% less than in Western countries, with comprehensive packages starting from $2,500-$4,000 (compared to $20,000-$50,000 in the US or Europe)
• Advanced Cardiac Catheterization Labs: State-of-the-art facilities equipped with the latest imaging technology and interventional equipment
• Premium Stent Options: Access to the latest generation of drug-eluting stents from leading global manufacturers at a fraction of Western prices
• High Procedural Success Rates: Iranian cardiac centers report success rates comparable to leading global institutions
• Minimal Wait Times: Quick scheduling with virtually no waiting lists, critical for time-sensitive cardiac conditions
• All-Inclusive Packages: Comprehensive care covering pre-procedure assessment, the intervention, post-procedure care, accommodation, transportation, and interpreter services
• Advanced Imaging Capabilities: Availability of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), optical coherence tomography (OCT), and fractional flow reserve (FFR) for optimal stent placement
• Integrated Cardiac Care: Seamless coordination with other cardiac services if needed

Risks and Considerations

• Bleeding or bruising at the catheter insertion site
• Allergic reaction to contrast dye or medications
• Blood vessel damage or perforation (rare)
• Arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms)
• Kidney damage from contrast dye (more common in those with existing kidney disease)
• Restenosis (re-narrowing of the artery)
• Stent thrombosis (blood clot formation within the stent)
• Need for emergency bypass surgery (very rare with modern techniques)

Ideal Candidates

Ideal candidates for angioplasty include individuals who:- Have significant coronary artery narrowing (typically >70%)- Experience symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath- Have had a positive stress test indicating reduced blood flow- Have had a heart attack or unstable angina- Have coronary anatomy suitable for stenting- Are not optimal candidates for coronary bypass surgery- Have reasonable kidney function to tolerate contrast dye- Can comply with dual antiplatelet therapy after stent placement

Preparation for Travel to Iran

Before traveling to Iran for angioplasty, patients should:- Consult with their chosen Iranian cardiac center remotely- Complete comprehensive cardiac evaluation in their home country and share results- Obtain necessary medical visa (facilitated by most medical tourism providers)- Discuss current medications, especially blood thinners, with the Iranian specialist- Continue prescribed cardiac medications unless otherwise instructed- Arrange for a family member or companion to accompany them- Pack comfortable clothing for the recovery period- Bring all current medical records and medication lists- Prepare for a 5-7 day stay in Iran for the procedure and initial recovery

Post-Procedure Care in Iran

After angioplasty in Iran, patients benefit from:- Immediate post-procedural care in specialized cardiac units- Continuous cardiac monitoring for the first 24 hours- Management of the access site to prevent bleeding- Initiation and education about dual antiplatelet therapy- Dedicated medical tourism coordinators to assist with any needs- Comfortable recovery accommodations after hospital discharge- Translation services for all medical communications- Detailed instructions for continued care upon returning home- Remote follow-up consultations as needed

Long-Term Results

Modern angioplasty with drug-eluting stents provides excellent long-term results for most patients. Success rates exceed 95% for opening blocked arteries, with over 90% of arteries remaining open at one year. The need for repeat procedures has decreased significantly with modern stent technology. Patients who undergo angioplasty in Iran report outcomes comparable to those achieved at leading global centers but at a fraction of the cost. Following the procedure, most patients experience significant improvement in symptoms and quality of life. Long-term success is enhanced by lifestyle modifications (smoking cessation, diet, exercise), medication adherence (particularly dual antiplatelet therapy), and regular cardiac follow-up care.