The cardiologists at Aster Hospitals offer minimally invasive angioplasty procedures for treating acute myocardial infarction. The procedure involves restoring the blood flow and minimizing the damage to the heart muscle. The skilled cardiologists at Aster Hospitals have successfully improved outcomes in the patients of acute myocardial infarction through angioplasty.
Myocardial infarction (MI), also known as heart attack, has become a significant global health concern in the past few decades. In India, the prevalence of MI is 64.37 per 1000 men aged 29 to 69 years.
Myocardial infarction is the permanent destruction of the heart muscles. It happens due to prolonged oxygen deprivation, known as ischemia. It leads to blood clots by obstructing blood flow, resulting in a medical emergency. Thus, immediate intervention is essential, as delays can lead to more severe consequences.
Myocardial infarction treatment has advanced significantly in the past few decades. With early diagnosis, treatment, and better management, mortality rates of MI have decreased. In patients with acute myocardial infarction, the prime goal is to restore antegrade coronary blood flow in the damaged artery. The two ways to restore coronary blood flow include:
- Dissolving the clots with thrombolytics and enabling smooth blood flow
- Acute angioplasty after immediate coronary angiography
Aster Hospitals provide round-the-clock assistance in emergency cases like myocardial infarction. It has access to contemporary operating rooms, imaging and diagnostic equipment, and fully stocked 24-hour pharmacies for prompt and precise disease management. Health Conditions Treated
- Atherosclerosis
- Coronary artery disease
FAQs
At Aster Hospitals we provide the highest quality of care and a transformative experience for all your healthcare needs. With our network of multi-speciality hospitals, specialised doctors, and world-class technology, we bring global standards of medical care to our patients.
What are the symptoms of acute myocardial infarction (AMI)
The symptoms of acute myocardial infarction can vary from person to person. Here are some common symptoms:
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Pain radiating to the arms (usually the left arm, but can also affect the right arm), neck, jaw, back, or stomach.
- Shortness of breath during rest or with minimal physical exertion
- Nausea or vomiting
- Cold sweats
- Unexplained fatigue
- Feeling dizzy or light-headed due to a reduced blood supply to the brain.
Is angioplasty always the best option during myocardial infarction?
Angioplasty is one of the treatment options for MI, but whether it's the best option depends on various factors. Mostly, angioplasty is preferred because it can quickly restore blood flow to the blocked artery, reducing damage to the heart muscle. It's considered the gold standard for treating MI.
Will I be awake during angioplasty?
Generally, you will receive local anesthesia or mild sedation to numb the area and help you relax. This means you won't feel pain during the procedure but might feel discomfort. Sedation can make you feel drowsy during the procedure, but you'll still be able to respond to instructions from your doctor.
Are there any complications of angioplasty during AMI?
The angioplasty is generally safe and effective. However, it's essential to be aware of potential complications. Such as:
- Bleeding at the site of catheter insertion.
- Blood clots can dislodge and may block smaller blood vessels.
- Infection at the insertion site.
- Allergic reactions to the contrast dye.
- Kidney damage due to contrast dye.
- Temporary irregular heart rhythms.
- Blood clots might form within the stent, causing sent thrombosis.
How successful is angioplasty for AMI?
Angioplasty is generally considered a highly successful procedure for treating MI. However, the success of the procedure can vary based on factors like:
- Severity of the blockage
- Location of the blockage
- Patient's overall health
- Timing of the intervention
Is angioplasty safe?
Angioplasty is generally considered a safe and well-established medical procedure. It has been performed successfully on millions of patients worldwide to treat various heart conditions, including acute myocardial infarction.
How long does the angioplasty procedure take?
On average, the angioplasty takes around 30 minutes to 2 hours. Simple angioplasties with straightforward blockages get completed relatively quickly. However, angioplasty involving multiple blockages or difficult-to-reach arteries could take longer.
How long is the recovery period after angioplasty during AMI?
Recovery times can vary from person to person. Some people may bounce back quickly, while others might need a bit longer.
However, after the procedure, you'll typically need to stay in the hospital for a day or two for observation and monitoring. Most patients can resume light activities within a day or two. The amount of time you need to take work off will depend on your work and how you feel.
Can the artery become blocked again after angioplasty?
Yes, the treated artery can become narrowed or blocked again after angioplasty. This is known as restenosis. Some stents are coated with medications known as drug-eluting stents, which slowly release drugs to prevent scar tissue from forming and reduce the chances of restenosis.
What lifestyle changes should I follow after this kind of angioplasty?
After undergoing angioplasty following a myocardial infarction, making specific lifestyle changes can fasten recovery. Here are some important changes to include:
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Quit smoking.
- Limit your alcohol intake.
- Practice stress-reduction techniques.
- Take medications prescribed by your cardiologist.
- Attend regular follow-ups to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan.
Advanced Technology & Facilities
The first hour after a myocardial infarction is called the golden hour. Access to immediate treatment is essential within this "golden hour" to save lives. Aster Hospitals' emergency care is a unique facility that provides round-the-clock service, the highest level of care, and prompt treatment in an emergency.
All our cardiologists, emergency medicine specialists, trauma surgeons, and support staff have received extensive training to manage patients with heart attacks. Diagnostic and management amenities available at Aster Hospitals include the following
Electrocardiogram
Electrocardiogram, or ECG, is a simple and painless test that records the electrical activity of your heart. It's used to diagnose various heart conditions, including signs of a heart attack.
Echocardiogram
Echocardiogram is a test that uses sound waves to generate images of the heart's structure and function. It helps assess the heart's pumping ability when done during MI
Coronary angiography
Coronary angiography is an imaging procedure that involves injecting a contrast dye into the blood vessels to visualize the coronary arteries. It helps identify blockages or narrowed areas in the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle.
Heart computed tomography
A heart computed tomography scan provides detailed cross-sectional images of the heart and blood vessels. It can help diagnose coronary artery disease, assess heart anatomy, and evaluate the presence of calcium deposits in the arteries.
Nuclear heart scan
Nuclear heart scans or myocardial perfusion imaging use a small amount of radioactive material to show blood flow to your heart muscle. They help identify areas of reduced blood flow, indicating potential blockages or heart muscle damage.
Angioplasty
The best treatment option for myocardial infarction available at Aster Hospitals is angioplasty. Primary angioplasty is performed in most cardiac hospitals during an acute heart attack as a life-saving procedure. This procedure aims to open the artery blocked or constricted with blood clots.
During this procedure, a catheter or stent is inserted into a blood vessel in your wrist or groin through the skin. Sedative medication is administered to prevent the sensation of the tube entering your body. With X-rays, an experienced cardiologist moves the catheter through your blood vessels to reach your blocked coronary artery. For easier visibility, doctors may insert a dye through the catheter.
Once the catheter reaches the constricted artery, your cardiologist will insert a wire and a second catheter with a deflated balloon at the end. Once the balloon is inflated, the plaque is moved to the side of the artery wall, which enables smooth blood flow to the heart muscle. The next step is to insert a stent, a tiny metal scaffold hollow inside. After the balloon is removed, the stent, which is more durable than a balloon, keeps the artery open. Modern stents have a medication coating on them that aids in preventing your artery from becoming too narrow once more.
