Coronary Angiogram & Angioplasty Singapore

1. Radial Artery Approach (through the wrist)

The catheter is inserted through a small puncture in your wrist artery, which typically results in greater comfort and allows you to sit up immediately after the procedure.

2. Femoral Artery Approach (through the groin)

Access is gained through the larger artery in your groin, which may be preferred for complex procedures or when larger equipment is needed.

1. Balloon Angioplasty

A tiny balloon is inflated inside the blocked artery to compress the plaque against the artery wall and restore blood flow.

• Drug-Eluting Balloons: These balloons are coated with medication that is released directly into the artery wall during inflation. The drug helps reduce inflammation and prevents re-narrowing of the artery after treatment.
• Cutting Balloon Angioplasty: For particularly hard or calcified blockages, a special balloon with tiny blades may be used to create controlled cuts in the plaque before standard balloon inflation.

2. Stent Placement

A small mesh tube is positioned in the opened artery to keep it from narrowing again.

• Drug-Eluting Stents: These stents are coated with medication that slowly releases over time to reduce the risk of the artery becoming blocked again.
• Resorbable Stents: These are temporary stents made from materials that gradually dissolve and are absorbed by the body after the artery has healed. They provide short-term support without leaving a permanent implant.
• Biodegradable Stents: Similar to resorbable stents, biodegradable stents are designed to naturally break down in the body over time. They are intended to reduce long-term complications that may arise from permanent metal stents.

• Recovery room monitoring: You’ll spend 2-6 hours in a recovery area where nursing staff will regularly check your blood pressure, heart rate, and the insertion site for any signs of bleeding.
• Position requirements: If the catheter was inserted through your groin, you’ll need to lie flat and keep your leg straight for several hours to prevent bleeding at the puncture site.
• Hydration: You’ll be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to help your kidneys process and eliminate the contrast dye used during the procedure.
• Pain management: Any discomfort at the insertion site is typically mild and can be managed with simple pain relief medications if needed.

• First 24 hours: You should avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activity, and driving, though gentle walking is encouraged to promote circulation and prevent blood clots.
• First week: Most people can return to desk work and light activities within 2-3 days, but you should avoid lifting anything heavier than 10 pounds.
• Two weeks onwards: You can gradually return to your normal activities, including exercise, though your cardiologist will provide specific guidance based on your individual situation.
• Insertion site healing: The small puncture site typically heals within a week, though you may notice some bruising which is completely normal.

• Scheduled appointments: Your cardiologist will arrange follow-up visits to monitor your recovery and adjust any new medications that may have been prescribed.
• Medication management: If you received a stent, you’ll likely be prescribed blood-thinning medications to prevent clots, which you’ll need to take exactly as directed.
• Warning signs to watch for: You’ll receive clear instructions about symptoms that require immediate medical attention, such as excessive bleeding, chest pain, or signs of infection.