During an angioplasty procedure, the physician inflates a small balloon within a narrowed blood vessel. This balloon helps to widen the blood vessel and restore normal blood flow. After the vessel is opened using angioplasty, in some cases, the physician may choose to insert a stent. A stent is a small, mesh tube that holds the artery open.
Angioplasty and stenting are performed through a small incision in the skin. The doctor inserts a long, thin tube called a catheter into the artery through this incision. The catheter is guided to the narrowed or blocked area. A balloon or stent is attached to the tip of the catheter.
Angioplasty and stenting
Angioplasty is most commonly used to treat peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Under certain conditions, it can also be used to treat narrowed veins. Depending on specific circumstances, physicians may choose angioplasty as an alternative to bypass surgery. For certain types of blockages, angioplasty offers advantages over surgery, such as smaller incisions, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times

Angioplasty can be performed while the patient is awake, whereas surgery typically requires general or local anesthesia
Prior to the procedure
Prior to the procedure, the physician will conduct a comprehensive medical history and physical examination. The doctor will inquire about the patient’s medical history, symptoms, including the frequency and severity of their symptoms. Additionally, the physician will order diagnostic tests to assess the extent of the blockage in the arteries. These tests help determine if the patient is a suitable candidate for angioplasty.
Choosing the right test
The choice of test depends on the location of the affected blood vessels. Not all tests are suitable for every situation. These tests may include:
- Doppler ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to create images of blood vessels and measure blood flow.
- MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging provides detailed images of the body’s organs and tissues.
- CT scan: A CT scan uses X-rays to create detailed images of the inside of the body.
- Pulse volume recordings (PVRs): This test measures blood flow in the arteries.
If these tests reveal that the arteries are narrowed, the doctor may recommend an angiography.
Preparation for Angioplasty
Typically, patients are asked to fast for 8 hours before an angiography procedure. The physician will inquire about medications that may increase the risk of bleeding or other complications. If the patient has any allergies, especially to contrast media used during angiography, it’s crucial to inform the doctor.
Before the procedure, the doctor may order blood tests to check clotting time and kidney function. An IV line will be inserted to administer fluids. Angiography is often performed before or during angioplasty to visualize the blood vessels.
Potential Complications during the Procedure
Complications during angioplasty and stenting can include allergies to the contrast material, bleeding, vessel damage, restenosis (renarrowing of the treated artery), and kidney problems. Patients with diabetes or kidney disease are at a higher risk of complications related to the contrast material. In some cases, pre-treatment with medications or fluids may be given to reduce the risk of kidney damage. Patients with bleeding disorders are also at increased risk. If there is extensive plaque buildup in the arteries, the risk of restenosis after angioplasty and stenting is higher.
Complications during and after Angioplasty and Stenting
During angioplasty and stenting, potential complications include allergic reactions to the contrast material, bleeding, vessel damage, restenosis (renarrowing of the treated artery), and kidney problems. Patients with diabetes or kidney disease are at a higher risk of contrast-induced nephropathy. Patients with bleeding disorders are also at increased risk. The extent of plaque buildup can also influence the risk of restenosis.
Angioplasty Procedure The physician inserts a catheter into the artery through a small incision. Local anesthesia is administered at the insertion site. The catheter is guided to the narrowed area under fluoroscopy. A balloon-tipped catheter is then inserted and inflated to widen the artery. If necessary, a stent is placed to keep the artery open. The patient may experience some discomfort during the procedure, but this is typically short-lived.
Possible complications and post-procedure care
- Complications: Allergic reactions, bleeding, blood clots, restenosis, and kidney damage are potential complications.
- Post-procedure: Patients may experience mild discomfort, and they should follow post-procedure care instructions, such as avoiding strenuous activity and monitoring for any unusual symptoms.
What happens during an angioplasty and stent placement procedure?
A catheter is inserted into the artery through a small incision. The area is numbed with local anesthetic. Guided by fluoroscopy, the catheter is advanced to the narrowed section of the artery. A balloon-tipped catheter is then introduced and inflated to widen the artery. If necessary, a stent is deployed to keep the artery open. The patient may experience some discomfort during balloon inflation, but this is usually temporary.
More detailed explanation:
- Catheter insertion: A thin, flexible tube is inserted into a blood vessel through a small incision in the skin.
- Guiding: Using fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray imaging), the catheter is guided to the narrowed portion of the artery.
- Balloon inflation: A balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated to compress the plaque against the arterial wall.
- Stent placement: If necessary, a stent (a small, mesh tube) is deployed to keep the artery open.
- Discomfort: Patients may feel some pressure or discomfort during balloon inflation.
Potential complications and risks:
- Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding at the puncture site.
- Blood clots: Blood clots can form at the site of the procedure.
- Restenosis: The artery may narrow again.
- Allergic reactions: Patients may have an allergic reaction to the contrast dye used during the procedure.

What to expect after the procedure
Typically, patients are required to rest for 6 to 24 hours after the procedure. During this time, the patient will be monitored for any complications. If the access site is in the groin, the leg should be kept straight for several hours.
Patients should contact their doctor immediately if they experience any of the following symptoms: increasing pain, fever, shortness of breath, changes in skin color (such as paleness or blueness), swelling, or pain at the puncture site.
Following discharge, patients should follow their doctor’s instructions. This may include avoiding heavy lifting for several days, drinking plenty of fluids to help flush out the contrast dye, and taking prescribed medications such as aspirin to prevent blood clots.
Potential Complications
While complications are uncommon, they can occur. Possible complications include bleeding at the puncture site, blood clots, allergic reactions to the contrast dye, kidney damage, and restenosis (narrowing of the treated artery).
During the procedure
A catheter is inserted into an artery through a small incision. The area is numbed with local anesthesia. Guided by fluoroscopy, the catheter is advanced to the narrowed portion of the artery. A balloon-tipped catheter is then introduced and inflated to widen the artery. If necessary, a stent is deployed to keep the artery open. The patient may experience some discomfort during balloon inflation, but this is usually temporary.

Dr. Hossein Ghanaati, a radiologist with extensive experience in medical imaging, is one of the leading physicians in this field. Utilizing his vast knowledge and experience, he provides accurate diagnostic services to patients. Dr. Ghanaati, in addition to his clinical activities, is engaged in research and teaching in the field of radiology and has published numerous articles and translations in this field.