balloon angioplasty
A procedure using an inflatable balloon catheter to compress atherosclerotic plaque and widen narrowed arteries.
Full Definition
Balloon angioplasty, also known as percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA), is a minimally invasive procedure where a balloon catheter is inflated within a stenotic vessel to compress plaque against the arterial wall and restore luminal diameter. The technique can be performed alone or combined with stent placement for improved long-term patency. Balloon angioplasty is fundamental to interventional cardiology and peripheral vascular intervention, appearing in procedure reports, imaging studies, and follow-up documentation throughout vascular medicine.
Usage
Usage note: Often shortened to 'angioplasty' in context, but 'balloon angioplasty' distinguishes from other angioplasty techniques.
In Context
- "Balloon angioplasty of the superficial femoral artery achieved excellent angiographic result." — Procedure report
- "High-pressure balloon angioplasty was required to adequately dilate the calcified lesion." — Interventional note