balloon angioplasty
Percutaneous coronary intervention using balloon inflation to compress atherosclerotic plaque and restore vessel lumen, often performed before stent placement.
Full Definition
Balloon angioplasty, also known as percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), involves the inflation of a specialized balloon catheter within a stenotic coronary artery segment to compress atherosclerotic plaque against the vessel wall and restore luminal patency. This foundational interventional technique works through controlled vessel injury, plaque fracture, and arterial stretching. While historically performed as a standalone procedure, balloon angioplasty now primarily serves as preparation for stent deployment, lesion modification, or optimization of stent expansion. The technique requires careful balloon sizing, appropriate inflation pressures, and consideration of vessel compliance. Complications may include vessel dissection, acute closure, or distal embolization of plaque debris.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as compound modifier; PTCA abbreviation less commonly used in contemporary practice.
In Context
- "Balloon angioplasty was performed with a 3.0 mm balloon at 12 atmospheres pressure." — Procedure description
- "Plain balloon angioplasty may be sufficient for small vessel disease in select patients." — Treatment strategy discussion