percutaneous transluminal angioplasty
Also written as: PTA — percutaneous transluminal angioplasty
Minimally invasive procedure using balloon catheter to dilate narrowed arteries and restore blood flow.
Full Definition
Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) is a minimally invasive endovascular procedure that employs balloon catheter technology to dilate stenotic or occluded arteries and restore adequate blood flow. The procedure involves advancing a deflated balloon catheter through the arterial system to the target lesion, then inflating the balloon under controlled pressure to compress atherosclerotic plaque against the vessel wall. Modern PTA techniques often incorporate drug-coated balloons or adjunctive stent placement to improve long-term patency rates. The procedure can be performed in various arterial territories including coronary, peripheral, and visceral circulations, with success rates and durability varying by location and lesion characteristics.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as PTA; ensure distinction from percutaneous thrombectomy procedures.
In Context
- "Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of the superficial femoral artery resulted in excellent flow restoration." — Procedure report
- "The patient underwent percutaneous transluminal angioplasty with drug-coated balloon technology." — Treatment description