Coronary angioplasty is a procedure where a thin catheter with a small balloon at its tip is inserted into a blocked or narrowed coronary artery. Once the catheter reaches the affected area, the balloon is gently inflated, compressing the fatty deposits (plaque) against the artery walls and widening the artery to improve blood flow.

In most cases, a stent — a small mesh tube — is placed in the artery to keep it open permanently. This ensures uninterrupted blood supply to the heart muscles and reduces the risk of future blockages or heart attacks.

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and mild sedation, allowing patients to remain awake but relaxed.

When Is Coronary Angioplasty Recommended?

Cardiologists may recommend coronary angioplasty if you experience:

• Stable or unstable angina (chest pain) caused by restricted blood flow to the heart.

• Acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) due to a sudden arterial blockage.

• Significant narrowing of one or more coronary arteries, detected through an angiogram.

• Coronary artery disease unresponsive to medications or lifestyle changes.

It’s also an alternative to coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in selected patients who have isolated blockages or are unsuitable for open-heart surgery.

Types of Coronary Angioplasty

There are several types of coronary angioplasty depending on the medical condition and technology used:

1. Balloon Angioplasty

The simplest form, where a tiny balloon is inflated inside the blocked artery to push the plaque aside and widen the passage.

2. Stent Placement (Coronary Stenting)

A stent is placed to hold the artery open after balloon inflation. There are two main types:

• Bare-metal stents (BMS)

• Drug-eluting stents (DES) – coated with medication that prevents re-narrowing of the artery.

3. Laser Angioplasty

Uses a laser-tipped catheter to vaporize plaque buildup and clear the artery.

4. Cutting or Rotational Angioplasty (Atherectomy)

Involves a rotating blade or burr to remove hardened plaque before stenting.

Each type is chosen based on the patient’s heart condition, age, and extent of arterial disease.

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Pre-Procedure Evaluation

Before angioplasty, diagnostic tests like an ECG, echocardiogram, blood tests, and coronary angiography are conducted to evaluate the exact location and severity of blockages.

Patients are advised to fast for several hours, and medications like blood thinners are adjusted accordingly.

2. Insertion of the Catheter

A small puncture is made, usually in the groin (femoral artery) or wrist (radial artery). A thin, flexible catheter is carefully guided through the blood vessels to the heart using real-time X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy).

3. Balloon Inflation

Once the catheter reaches the narrowed artery, a tiny balloon at its tip is inflated to compress the plaque and widen the artery. This restores blood flow to the heart.

4. Stent Placement

Most angioplasties involve inserting a stent to prevent the artery from collapsing again. The stent remains in place permanently, while the balloon and catheter are removed.

5. Post-Procedure Monitoring

After the procedure, patients are monitored in a recovery room for several hours. Heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels are continuously checked. Most patients are discharged within 1–2 days, depending on their recovery.

Benefits of Coronary Angioplasty

• Restores normal blood flow to the heart muscle.

• Relieves chest pain (angina) and shortness of breath.

• Reduces risk of heart attack and heart failure.

• Minimally invasive – no major incision or long recovery period.

• Quick recovery – patients often return to normal activities within a week.

• Life-saving in emergencies, especially during heart attacks.

Risks and Possible Complications

While coronary angioplasty is a safe and common procedure, it does carry certain risks, including:

• Bleeding or bruising at the catheter site.

• Artery re-narrowing (restenosis) after a few months.

• Blood clots forming inside the stent.

• Irregular heartbeat or heart attack (rare).

• Kidney complications due to contrast dye.

These risks are minimized when the procedure is performed by experienced cardiologists at accredited hospitals — a key priority for One Life Medical Tourism, which partners only with leading cardiac care centers in India.

Post-Procedure Care and Recovery

Recovery from coronary angioplasty is generally quick and smooth. Most patients can resume light activities within a few days. Here are key recovery steps:

• Take prescribed medications such as antiplatelets (Aspirin, Clopidogrel) to prevent clotting.

• Avoid strenuous activities for at least one week.

• Monitor blood pressure and cholesterol regularly.

• Follow a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.

• Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake.

• Attend follow-up appointments for stent and heart monitoring.

With these lifestyle adjustments, angioplasty can significantly improve long-term heart health and quality of life.

Alternatives to Coronary Angioplasty

Depending on the patient’s condition, doctors may also consider:

• Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) – open-heart surgery to bypass blocked arteries.

• Medication Therapy – use of nitrates, beta-blockers, and statins to manage symptoms.

• Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP) – a non-invasive therapy for chronic angina.

Your cardiologist, in consultation with One Life Medical Tourism, will help determine the best treatment approach for your individual needs.

Why Choose Coronary Angioplasty in India?

India is one of the world’s leading destinations for advanced cardiac care, offering:

• World-class cardiologists with international expertise.

• Affordable treatment costs — up to 70% less than in Western countries.

• Cutting-edge cardiac hospitals with modern catheterization labs.

• Minimal waiting time for procedures.

• Comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation programs.

By partnering with One Life Medical Tourism, patients gain access to these top-tier facilities with complete support from travel to treatment.

Cost of Coronary Angioplasty in India

The cost of coronary angioplasty in India varies based on hospital location, type of stent used, and the patient’s overall health. On average:

• Single stent angioplasty: ₹1,50,000 – ₹2,50,000

• Double stent angioplasty: ₹2,50,000 – ₹3,50,000

• Drug-eluting stents (DES): Slightly higher cost but better long-term outcomes.

One Life Medical Tourism ensures transparent pricing and assists patients in selecting hospitals that match their budget and expectations without compromising on quality.

Preparing for Coronary Angioplasty

Before the procedure, it’s important to:

• Inform your doctor about current medications, especially blood thinners.

• Avoid eating or drinking 6–8 hours prior.

• Arrange for post-procedure transport, as driving immediately afterward is not recommended.

• Stay calm – it’s a short and highly successful procedure with minimal discomfort.

At One Life Medical Tourism, our patient coordinators guide you through every preoperative step, ensuring all travel, hospital, and accommodation arrangements are seamless.

Success Rate of Coronary Angioplasty

Coronary angioplasty boasts an impressive success rate of 95–98% when performed by experienced interventional cardiologists. Most patients experience immediate relief from chest pain and can lead active, healthy lives after recovery.

Long-term success depends on lifestyle changes and adherence to medications — both of which are supported by One Life Medical Tourism’s post-treatment guidance programs.

Why Choose One Life Medical Tourism for Your Angioplasty?

One Life Medical Tourism specializes in connecting international and domestic patients to India’s most trusted hospitals and expert cardiologists. Our services include:

• Personalized treatment planning and doctor consultations.

• Assistance with medical visa, accommodation, and local transport.

• Coordination of pre- and post-procedure care.

• 24×7 support throughout your medical journey in India.

• Transparent cost estimates and ethical healthcare partnerships.

Choosing One Life Medical Tourism means peace of mind — knowing that your heart is in the best possible hands.

Coronary angioplasty is more than just a heart procedure — it’s a second chance at life. By restoring vital blood flow to the heart and preventing future cardiac events, it empowers patients to lead longer, healthier, and more energetic lives.

With One Life Medical Tourism, patients receive world-class care, affordable treatment options, and complete travel-to-recovery assistance, making India one of the most trusted global destinations for heart care.

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of coronary artery disease or have been advised to undergo angioplasty, reach out to One Life Medical Tourism today — and take the first step toward a stronger heart and a healthier future.