A minimally invasive procedure, cutting balloon angioplasty involves the insertion of a catheter with a deflated cutting balloon on the inside into the groin area. The catheter is then moved to an area with a blockage in order to remove plaque from a blocked peripheral or coronary artery. The cutting device makes incisions in the plaque as the balloon is inflated to push the plaque aside.
Also Known As:
- Balloon angioplasty
- CBA
- Angioplasty
- Heart surgery
Conditions Treated with Cutting Balloon Angioplasty:
Cutting balloon angioplasty may be performed to unblock an atherosclerotic vessel following a coronary artery or infrainguinal bypass. It can also be used in cases of atherosclerosis, peripheral artery disease, coronary artery disease and ischemic leg pain.
Non-surgical alternatives to cutting balloon angioplasty include dietary changes, weight loss, lifestyle changes, blood pressure medication, blood thinners and vasodilators. Balloon angioplasty, coronary artery bypass and infrainguinal artery bypass are surgical alternatives to the procedure.
Anesthesia with Cutting Balloon Angioplasty:
Cutting balloon angioplasty is performed with a local anesthetic and sedation.
Potential Complications from Cutting Balloon Angioplasty:
Possible risks following cutting balloon angioplasty include bleeding, stroke, heart attack, heart arrhythmia, blood vessel damage and restenosis. It is also possible to experience a negative reaction to the anesthesia or the dye used in the procedure. Sometimes, revision bypass surgery or a repeat of the procedure is needed.
Prognosis after Cutting Balloon Angioplasty:
The prognosis for a positive end result following cutting balloon angioplasty is good.
Recovery from Cutting Balloon Angioplasty:
Total recovery from cutting balloon angioplasty takes one week.