When a blood vessel becomes blocked or narrowed, serious complications can occur. Non-invasive techniques such as angioplasty and stent placement can help restore blood circulation and can usually have the patient back to a normal routine within hours after the procedure. Angioplasty involves the insertion of a very small balloon into the narrowed vessel. The interventional radiologist increases the diameter of the artery by slowly inflating the balloon. A small mesh like metal called a stent can also be inserted into the vessel thereby helping to maintain and strengthen the artery.

 

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Angioplasty & Stent Placement