What Is Coronary Angioplasty?
Coronary angioplasty (also called PCI – percutaneous coronary intervention) is a non-surgical procedure used to treat narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. A thin catheter is inserted into the artery (usually via the wrist), a balloon is inflated to open the blockage, and a stent is placed to keep the artery open.
Benefits of the Procedure
Angioplasty improves blood flow to the heart muscle, relieving symptoms of:
- Chest pain (angina)
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue during exertion
It significantly reduces the risk of heart attacks and can be lifesaving in emergency settings.
What to Expect
The procedure is often completed in under an hour. Most patients are discharged the next day. Light activities can resume within a few days, while driving and work may resume in about one week. Long-term success is supported by medications and lifestyle changes.


