Coronary artery diseases are conditions affecting the blood vessels that supply blood and nutrition to the heart. These blood vessels are called coronary arteries. Blockage of coronary arteries leads to reduction in the oxygenation and nutrition of the heart muscles leading to improper functioning of the heart. This leads to symptoms like chest pain, also called as angina. If the blockage persists, it may lead to damage of the heart tissue, a condition called as myocardial infarction or heart attack. Risk factors of coronary artery disease include co-morbid conditions like hypertension and diabetes.

Angioplasty is derived from the words Angio meaning vessel and Plasticos which means fit for molding. Angioplasty is a medical procedure which involves the alteration of a narrowed or obstructed blood vessel lumen usually caused by deposition of fat (atheroma).

Angioplasty was first used in 1977 where a tiny balloon was used to open and widen narrowed arteries. Now the procedure has improved with the use of modern devices like stents, lasers and new methods.

Coronary Angioplasty involves a small incision to be made in the arm or groin to find an artery. The cardiologist leads a thin wire through the incision to the blocked artery. As soon as the wire reaches the blocked artery, a catheter with a deflated balloon is passed over the inserted wire to the blocked area. When the tube reaches the blockage the balloon is inflated which in turn widens the artery to increase the blood flow. Plaque removers may be used to remove deposited plaque from the walls of the artery. Modern devices like stents are used to keep the artery open. The stent is permanently fixed. After a few hours of the Coronary Angioplasty the wire and catheter are removed