Question 1

How long does the procedure take?

Accepted Answer

The procedure lasts 30-60 minutes. You will be required to remain in bed for 4 hours following the procedure to ensure that the artery remains sealed, and bruising is kept to a minimum.

Question 2

Will I require medications?

Accepted Answer

The diagnosis is frequently missed because clinicians may not initially consider a vascular condition in young, otherwise healthy individuals. Additionally, abnormalities may not be apparent during physical examinations, especially in the early stages of the condition.

Question 3

When is Angioplasty with Stent Placement recommended?

Accepted Answer

Angioplasty with stent placement is recommended when there is a significant blockage or narrowing in a blood vessel (usually coronary arteries supplying the heart) that is restricting blood flow. It is often used to treat conditions like coronary artery disease and can help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications such as heart attacks.

Question 4

When can patients go home?

Accepted Answer

If the Nursing Staff are happy that all is well, you will then be allowed to go home 4 hours after the completion of the procedure. You will not be able to drive and therefore must make suitable arrangements to be taken home. In addition, you should arrange for someone to be with you until the following morning in case you need assistance.

We will ensure that you have a follow-up appointment within two weeks of the procedure.

Question 5

Are there any potential complications?

Accepted Answer

Bruising over the puncture site can occur but is usually not a problem and fades away within a few days.
Damage to the artery is possible, but fortunately, this is exceedingly rare.
Allergic reactions to the contrast are very rare, please inform our office and the hospital immediately of any allergy to Iodine.
Kidney damage can occur, especially in the kidneys are already functioning poorly. For that reason, a blood test to check kidney function is performed prior to the procedure.

Question 6

Do I need to stop taking any medications?

Accepted Answer

Warfarin must be ceased 3 days prior to the procedure
Aspirin can be continued
Some diabetic medications such as Metformin, Diabex, Diaformin, Diamicron, Jardiance, Jardiment, Glucomet, Gliclazide need to be withheld for 2 days
Diabetic Injections- such as Insulin, patient to check with Anaesthetist or Endocrinologist.

If Admission in the morning, Insulin is withheld
If Admission is afternoon, morning insulin dose is usually halved and taken with breakfast.

Angioplasty / Stent