“I am pleased that I am able to offer my patients state-of-the-art technology and procedures that rival larger cities — right here in Peoria.”
Andy Chiou, MD
A blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the body.
A hollow, flexible tube inserted into a body cavity, duct or vessel to allow for the passage of fluids.
A tubular device, composed of a special fabric and supported by a rigid structure, that is designed to be inserted into a vessel or passageway to keep it open.
This procedure is performed to widen a narrowed or blocked artery. Angioplasty takes 1 to 2 hours and is performed at a hospital or surgical center. Though you will be awake during the procedure, you will receive medication to help you relax.
The site where the catheter will be inserted is numbed, and imaging techniques are used to guide a balloon-tipped catheter into the artery to be treated. Once there, the balloon on the end of the catheter is inflated to break down the plaque and/or push it against the artery wall. Then the balloon is deflated.
This is repeated several times until satisfactory results are achieved. Then a small, wire mesh tube (stent) is permanently placed in the newly opened artery to allow it to remain open. One of two types of stents will be used: a bare stent (wire mesh) or covered stent (with an additional artificial wall). The catheters are removed and blood flows freely through the artery.
During the procedure, the IV sedative may make you relaxed and sleepy. You may feel slight pressure when the catheter is inserted, and mild discomfort when the balloon is inflated. This should lessen as the balloon is deflated. You will remain in recovery for several hours during which time your catheter site will be checked for bleeding or swelling, and your vitals will be monitored. Your physician may prescribe medication prevent blood clots. After you return home, you will be instructed not to lift heavy objects or exercise strenuously for 24 hours. You should avoid smoking on a permanent basis. If you have an MRI after your stent placement, make sure you notify the technician that you have a stent.