Intermediate
Technical
IVT
angioplasty balloon
The inflatable component of a balloon catheter used to dilate coronary arteries.
Full Definition
An angioplasty balloon is the expandable polymer component at the tip of a balloon catheter that is inflated with contrast medium and saline to compress atherosclerotic plaque against the arterial wall. The balloon's diameter, length, and compliance characteristics are precisely specified for each procedure. In editorial contexts, distinguish between the balloon itself and the complete balloon catheter system.
In Context
- "The angioplasty balloon was inflated to 12 atmospheres for 30 seconds." — Procedure report
- "Balloon compliance curves demonstrate the relationship between inflation pressure and balloon diameter." — Technical specification
Also known as
PTCA balloon
dilation balloon
Don't confuse with
balloon catheter
guide balloon