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Understanding Balloon Surgery
Balloon surgery, also known as balloon dilation or balloon angioplasty, is a minimally invasive procedure used to open up narrowed or blocked blood vessels, particularly in the arteries. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as atherosclerosis, where plaque buildup restricts blood flow. This procedure helps restore proper circulation and can significantly reduce symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath.
Indications for Balloon Surgery
Balloon surgery is typically indicated for patients experiencing symptoms due to narrowed or blocked blood vessels, including:
- Coronary Artery Disease: Causing chest pain (angina) or heart attacks.
- Peripheral Artery Disease: Leading to leg pain or cramping.
- Carotid Artery Disease: Increasing the risk of stroke.
The Balloon Surgery Procedure
Balloon surgery involves the insertion of a small balloon-tipped catheter into the narrowed or blocked artery. The balloon is then inflated to widen the artery and restore blood flow.
Preoperative Evaluation
- Assessment: Patients undergo a thorough evaluation, including physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies (such as angiography) to determine the extent of the blockage and plan the procedure.
- Preparation: Patients receive pre-operative instructions, which may include fasting guidelines and medication adjustments.
Surgical Procedure
- Local Anesthesia: The area where the catheter will be inserted is numbed using a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort during the procedure.
- Catheter Insertion: A small incision is made, typically in the groin or wrist, to access the artery. A catheter is then guided through the blood vessels to the site of the blockage.
- Balloon Inflation: The balloon at the tip of the catheter is carefully inflated, compressing the plaque against the artery walls and widening the artery.
- Stent Placement: In some cases, a stent (a small wire mesh tube) is inserted to keep the artery open.
- Duration: The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours.
Postoperative Care
- Recovery: Patients are monitored for a few hours after the procedure and may stay overnight in the hospital for observation.
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications may be recommended to manage postoperative discomfort.
- Activity Restrictions: Patients should avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a few days to allow proper healing.
- Follow-Up Care: Scheduling follow-up appointments to monitor healing, check the success of the procedure, and discuss any concerns.
Potential Risks and Complications
While balloon surgery is generally safe, it carries certain risks and potential complications, including:
- Infection: At the catheter insertion site, which may require antibiotics.
- Bleeding: Excessive bleeding may occur at the insertion site, necessitating further medical attention.
- Artery Damage: Rare but possible injury to the artery, requiring additional treatment.
- Restenosis: The artery may narrow again, necessitating further procedures.
- Blood Clots: Formation of clots at the treatment site, increasing the risk of a heart attack or stroke.
Why Choose Neo TrueNorth for Your Balloon Surgery?
- Experienced Surgeons: Our board-certified vascular surgeons specialize in performing balloon surgeries with precision and care.
- Advanced Diagnostic Tools: Neo TrueNorth is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic technology to accurately evaluate vascular conditions and plan effective treatment.
- Personalized Care: We provide individualized care plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs and health status, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
- Comprehensive Support: Our multidisciplinary team offers comprehensive support, including pre-operative counseling, post-operative care, and follow-up consultations, to ensure a positive surgical experience.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Neo TrueNorth is equipped with modern surgical facilities and the latest technology to provide safe and successful balloon surgeries in a comfortable environment.
Trust Neo TrueNorth for expert care in balloon surgery. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.
Meet Our Experts
Dr Venkataramana
MS - General Surgery, MBBS
Dr Shiva Kumar
MBBS, DNB - General Surgery
Dr Poornima Parasuraman
MBBS, MS - General Surgery
Dr Kiran.K.J
MBBS, MS - General Surgery