A technique for treating a narrowed or blocked section of blood vessel by introducing a catheter with a balloon into the constricted area. The balloon is inflated to widen the narrowed area, deflated again, and then removed. Balloon angioplasty is used to restore blood flow in peripheral vascular disease and coronary artery disease. Coronary balloon angioplasty is usually successful, but the narrowing may recur in the affected vessel, requiring repeat treatment. Angioplasty of peripheral vessels is most successful in treating the iliac and femoral arteries in the legs.
Angioplasty, balloon |
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