angioplasty
Pronunciation: AN-jee-oh-plas-tee
Interventional procedure to open blocked coronary arteries, often used interchangeably with PCI in clinical documentation.
Full Definition
A minimally invasive interventional cardiology procedure used to open narrowed or blocked coronary arteries by inflating a small balloon catheter within the vessel lumen. Modern angioplasty typically includes stent placement to maintain vessel patency. The procedure is performed via cardiac catheterization, usually through radial or femoral arterial access. Medical editors encounter this term in procedure reports, informed consent documents, and post-procedural care instructions. The technique has evolved from plain balloon angioplasty to drug-eluting stent placement, with specific terminology for different approaches and complications such as restenosis or stent thrombosis.
Usage
Usage note: Often used synonymously with PCI; specify if balloon-only or stent-assisted when relevant.
In Context
- "Primary angioplasty was performed for acute anterior wall myocardial infarction." — Interventional cardiology procedure note
- "The patient is scheduled for elective angioplasty of the right coronary artery." — Pre-procedure scheduling note