Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a minimally invasive procedure that opens narrowed or blocked heart arteries. Using a catheter with a balloon and often a stent, it restores blood flow to the heart muscle. It helps relieve chest pain, prevent heart attacks, and improve overall heart function without needing open-heart surgery.
There are three main types of PCI are balloon angioplasty (a balloon widens the artery), stent angioplasty (a stent holds the artery open), and drug-eluting stents (release medication to prevent artery narrowing). The choice depends on the blockage severity, location, and patient condition. Each type helps improve blood circulation and reduces the risk of future heart problems.
The main cause is coronary artery disease, where plaque (fat and cholesterol) builds up in arteries. Contributing factors include high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, and lack of exercise. When arteries narrow or block, the heart doesn’t get enough oxygen, requiring PCI to relieve symptoms and prevent serious complications.
Common symptoms prompting PCI include chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, unusual tiredness during activity, or signs of a heart attack. These indicate reduced blood flow due to artery blockages. PCI is considered when symptoms are persistent or when tests confirm narrowed arteries, helping improve oxygen supply to the heart.
Doctors use various tests to determine if PCI is needed. These include electrocardiogram (ECG), stress tests, echocardiography, and coronary angiography. Coronary angiography is the most important, as it provides a clear image of blocked arteries. Based on these tests, cardiologists decide if PCI is the best treatment to restore healthy blood flow.
PCI involves inserting a thin, flexible tube (catheter) into a blood vessel in the arm or groin. It’s guided to the heart where a balloon inflates at the blockage site. A stent may be placed to keep the artery open. This quick, non-surgical procedure helps restore blood flow and reduce heart-related symptoms.
Seek medical help if you notice symptoms of poor heart circulation or discomfort.
If you experience frequent or intense chest pain (angina), especially during exertion, it may indicate restricted blood flow.
Difficulty breathing even during light activity may signal heart-related blockages requiring PCI treatment.
Feeling exhausted after simple tasks can reflect poor oxygen delivery due to narrowed coronary arteries.
Skipped or racing heartbeats may be linked to artery problems needing urgent PCI intervention.
A heart attack is often followed by PCI to open the affected artery and prevent future complications.
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The cardiologist mediSuggest connected me with was experienced and was reassuring. I’m now back to work and walking daily
Kavita Deshmukh Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Surgery
I didn’t realize how serious my symptoms were. mediSuggest helped me get treated fast before it was too late.
Rajesh Chauhan Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Surgery
The care team followed up after my PCI and helped me stick to my medication and diet. Very supportive.
Meena Iyer Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Surgery
I was afraid of hidden costs, but mediSuggest made everything clear. The EMI plan was a great relief.
Suresh Kumar Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Surgery
From consultation to discharge, the whole process was smooth and timely. Very grateful for the care and guidance
Shreya Patil Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Surgery
Thanks to mediSuggest, I had my PCI surgery on time. No more chest pain, and I feel energized again
Anil Menon Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Surgery
PCI (Percutaneous Coronary Intervention) is a procedure that opens blocked arteries using a balloon and stent to restore heart blood flow.
No, PCI is a minimally invasive procedure done through a catheter, typically requiring no large incisions or general anesthesia.
Most patients recover within a few days and can resume normal activities soon, depending on overall health and the procedure's complexity.
Like any procedure, PCI carries minor risks such as bleeding or re-narrowing of arteries, but it’s generally safe with experienced cardiologists.
In most cases, yes. A stent helps keep the artery open after ballooning and reduces the chance of future blockages.
