Transluminal arterial dilatations (also called transluminal balloon angioplasty or percutaneous transluminal angioplasty) refer to a medical procedure used to widen narrowed or blocked arteries, primarily in the heart, brain, arms, or legs. This technique is commonly employed to treat conditions such as atherosclerosis, peripheral artery disease (PAD), or coronary artery disease (CAD).
During the procedure, a thin catheter with an inflatable balloon at its tip is inserted into the affected artery, guided by imaging techniques such as fluoroscopy or angiography. Once the catheter reaches the narrowed portion of the artery, the balloon is inflated to compress the plaque buildup and widen the arterial space. This expansion of the artery helps restore blood flow and alleviate symptoms caused by decreased circulation.
Transluminal arterial dilatations are typically performed by interventional cardiologists or surgeons in a specialized catheterization laboratory or operating room. In some cases, stents (small mesh tubes) may be inserted during the procedure to provide structural support and maintain the widened artery's patency. This procedure is minimally invasive compared to traditional open surgery and often requires only local anesthesia.
While transluminal arterial dilatations have proven to be an effective treatment for certain arterial conditions, there are potential risks involved, such as arterial injury, bleeding, blood clots, or in rare cases, vessel rupture. Therefore, these procedures should always be performed by skilled medical professionals with appropriate training and experience. Follow-up care, including lifestyle changes and medication, may be necessary to manage the underlying condition and optimize long-term outcomes.
