Angiography is a medical imaging method used in the diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases. This method is a type of x-ray technique used to identify problems with the heart and blood vessels. Angiography is performed by injecting contrast material into the blood vessels, thus obtaining detailed information about the condition of the vessels.
How Does Angiography Work?
Angiography is a procedure performed by a specialist doctor. First, local anesthesia is applied to the patient's groin or arm and a catheter (a thin tube) is inserted into the vein. Then, contrast material is injected into the vein and the veins are imaged with an x-ray machine. If the doctor detects a blocked or narrowed area, he reaches this area using a balloon catheter and inflates the balloon. This allows the vessel to open and blood flow to be restored.
Types of Angiography Procedure
Angiography is a treatment option that can be applied with different methods. The most commonly used methods are:
- Balloon angioplasty: Using a balloon catheter, the blockage area is reached and the balloon is inflated to open the vessel.
- Stent placement: A type of wire called a stent is inserted into a narrowed vein. The stent keeps the vein open and helps restore blood flow.
- Atherectomy: It removes the plaques inside a narrowed vessel. This procedure is especially effective in treating blockages with calcium deposits.
Preparation for Angioplasty
Some preparations need to be made before angioplasty. Your doctor will give you specific instructions, but in general the following steps are followed:
- Blood tests: Your doctor examines your blood and determines whether you are suitable for angioplasty.
- Medication use: Some medications may need to be stopped or changed before angioplasty. Your doctor will tell you which medications you can or cannot use.
- Fasting period: You may need to fast for a certain period of time before angioplasty. Your doctor will tell you when you can last eat.
Angioplasty Procedure - Step by Step
- Local anesthesia: Local anesthesia is usually applied for the angioplasty procedure. This numbs the area, reducing pain.
- Catheter placement: The doctor inserts a catheter into the groin or arm area. This catheter is used to reach the vein and inject contrast material.
- Injecting contrast material: Contrast material is injected into the vein and the veins are visualized with an x-ray device. This is done to detect problems such as blockages or narrowing.
- Using a balloon catheter: If the doctor detects an obstruction or narrowing, he reaches this area using a balloon catheter and inflates the balloon. This allows the vessel to open and blood flow to be restored.
- Stent placement or other procedures (optional): In some cases, other procedures, such as placing a stent in a narrowed vein or atherectomy, may be necessary.
Recovery and Care After Angioplasty
The recovery process after angioplasty is usually rapid. However, it is important to note some important points. You should follow your doctor's instructions throughout the recovery process. It is also important to pay attention to the following points:
- Medication use: Your doctor will give you information about the medications you should use after angioplasty. It is important that you use these medications regularly.
- Healing process: Mild pain or swelling is normal after angioplasty. These usually pass in a short time. However, if your symptoms worsen or persist for a long time, you should contact your doctor.
- Activity regulation: You may need to avoid heavy physical activities for a certain period of time after angioplasty. Your doctor will tell you what activities you can do.
Conclusion
Angiography and Angiography are medical methods that play an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. While Angiography provides detailed information about the condition of the vessels, Angiography enables the opening of blocked or narrowed vessels. This procedure produces successful results in many patients and significantly improves their quality of life. However, each patient's situation is different and your doctor will recommend the most appropriate treatment option for you. It is also important to make lifestyle changes after angioplasty, as this is important for a healthy healing process and the prevention of future heart problems.