Complex Coronary Angioplasty

Coronary artery disease occurs when fatty deposits and calcium build up inside the arteries that supply blood to the heart. While simple blockages can often be treated with standard angioplasty and stenting, certain patients have complex blockages that are harder to manage. These may be due to heavy calcification, complete artery closure (CTO), or blockages in critical locations such as the left main artery.

Complex Coronary Angioplasty uses advanced tools and techniques to successfully open these difficult blockages and restore proper blood flow to the heart. Some of the specialized methods include:

• Rotational & Orbital Atherectomy – Special rotating devices that grind away calcium deposits inside the arteries.
• Imaging-Guided Angioplasty (IVUS/OCT) – High-resolution imaging that ensures accurate stent placement and better long-term results.
• Intravascular Lithotripsy (IVL) – Uses sound wave technology to break up hard calcium in arteries safely.
• Laser-Guided Angioplasty – Uses laser energy to vaporize blockages that cannot be managed by other techniques.

Benefits of Complex Angioplasty:

• Opens arteries that would otherwise require bypass surgery.
• Provides relief from chest pain (angina) and breathlessness.
• Reduces risk of future heart attacks.
• Minimally invasive with smaller incisions compared to surgery.
• Faster recovery and shorter hospital stay.

Why it matters:

Patients with severe heart blockages often feel hopeless when told surgery is their only option. Complex angioplasty offers them a second chance — allowing safe treatment through minimally invasive methods, preserving heart health, and restoring their ability to live an active, normal life.