Revascularization Treatment for Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

Balloon Angioplasty

Balloon angioplasty, sometimes called percutaneous transluminal angioplasty, is a minimally invasive revascularization approach that widens obstructed arteries. During the treatment, a thin, flexible tube called a catheter is introduced into an artery, typically in the groin.

With the help of X-ray guidance, the catheter is navigated to the blockage. An inflatable balloon is deployed in the leg when the blockage is reached. The balloon is inflated delicately, opening the blockage by pushing the plaque toward the artery wall, creating a channel through which blood can flow.

The balloon is then deflated and extracted, leaving a larger opening in the artery. In some cases, a wire mesh tube (stent) may be inserted to keep the artery open and prevent future narrowing.

Balloon angioplasty has many benefits for patients with PAD. It is a relatively quick procedure, typically lasting less than an hour, with most patients able to go home the same day. It does not require open surgery, resulting in less pain, minimal recovery time, and a reduced risk of infection.

Stenting

Stenting is a procedure similar to balloon angioplasty but with the addition of a wire mesh tube called a stent. Stents are inserted during balloon angioplasty to keep the artery open and prevent restenosis, which is the narrowing of the artery after the procedure.

Stenting is frequently performed with balloon angioplasty in patients with PAD who are likely to experience recurrent narrowing of the artery.

There are several types of stents available, including bare-metal stents, drug-eluting stents, and biodegradable stents. The choice of stent type depends on the patient's unique anatomy and the severity of the blockage.

The steps of stenting are similar to balloon angioplasty:

1. A catheter is threaded into an artery in the leg.
2. An uninflated balloon is guided to the arterial blockage.
3. The balloon is inflated to enlarge the opening in the artery.

When the artery is sufficiently widened, the stent is then deployed. The stent expands to hold the artery open securely and restore blood flow. Once the procedure is concluded, the catheter is withdrawn, and patients are typically discharged home the same day.

While balloon angioplasty and stenting are effective treatment options for PAD, they do come with some risks. Complications can include bleeding, infection, blood clots, and damage to the artery or surrounding tissues. It is important to discuss these risks thoroughly with your physician before undergoing any procedure.

Balloon angioplasty and stenting can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with PAD, helping to reduce symptoms and improve mobility.

Texas Endovascular: Providing Effective, Minimally Invasive Treatment for PAD

At Texas Endovascular, we are dedicated to providing specialized care for patients suffering from peripheral artery disease (PAD). Our team specializes in balloon angioplasty and stenting, an effective treatment for this condition.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of PAD, we urge you to book a consultation with our team at Texas Endovascular. Our compassionate and skilled staff will be happy to go over your options and design your comprehensive treatment program.

If you are struggling with vascular disease, please don't wait. Contact us today for a thorough evaluation.