Coronary angioplasty
Coronary angioplasty is a procedure to treat blocked or narrowed coronary arteries (coronary artery disease).
The procedure is usually performed via a blood vessel in the arm (radial artery), or sometimes the leg (femoral artery). A stent (short wire-mesh tube) is typically inserted at the site of the coronary narrowing and remains permanently in place to allow blood to flow more freely through the diseased artery.
What does coronary angioplasty involve?
A short tube (sheath) is placed in a peripheral artery in the wrist or groin under local anaesthetic. Wires and longer tubes (called catheters) are then passed through the sheath towards the heart. Contrast can then be injected through catheters into the heart arteries to opacify them and identify any narrowings/blockages. This diagnostic procedure is called a coronary angiogram.
If the coronary angiogram detects one or more significant coronary narrowings, then these may be treated by a coronary angioplasty. After passing a very thin wire through the narrowed coronary artery, balloons and stents can be passed over the wire to treat the area of disease. Balloons are used to dilate the vessel and open the narrowing, and a stent may also be placed to help keep the artery widely open. The stent is usually a metal alloy that is coated with a special drug to reduce its chance of re-narrowing.
At the end of the procedure all equipment is removed from the body; however, if a stent has been implanted this will remain in the artery for life.
Why choose Cromwell Hospital?
We have a team of highly experienced cardiologists who have honed their skills and expertise working at some of London's leading NHS teaching hospitals.
Our cardiologists work collaboratively to combine their expertise. Working together, they will tailor your care to your individual needs and ensure that their decisions are in your best interests.
Our diagnostic service uses the latest technology and an on-site laboratory for speedy test results.
We move quickly and work efficiently. If you get in touch, we can offer a consultation to assess your case the next day.
What is the recovery period?
After the procedure, you’ll normally be able to go home the same day or the day after.
If you've been admitted to hospital due to a heart attack, you may need to stay in hospital for several days after the procedure before going home.
You'll need to avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activities and driving for at least a week, but should generally be able to return to full activity a few weeks afterwards.
Contact us today
Our team will be happy to answer any questions and book your appointment.
Self-pay: +44 (0)20 7244 4886
Insured: +44 (0)20 7460 5700
Paying for your treatment
We welcome both self-paying and insured patients.
Self-pay patients
We offer several ways for patients to self-pay, including pay-as-you-go, flexible payment options, and self-pay packages.
Insured patients
At Cromwell Hospital, we accept private health insurance from most major providers, including AXA, Aviva, Bupa, and Vitality.
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