Carotid Angioplasty :
Carotid angioplasty is a procedure done to improve the blood flow to the brain in the carotid arteries, which have been narrowed or blocked due to plaque or atherosclerosis. Carotid angioplasty is done after a carotid angiogram if the cardiologist or an interventional radiologist finds a block or narrowing that is more than 60 % in the carotid arteries. It is a minimally invasive procedure that is done through the femoral route under fluoroscopy guidance. A small catheter with a balloon on it is passed to the artery and inflated, and then a stent is placed, which moves away the plaque and atherosclerosis, making the blood flow easy. The patient needs to be hospitalized for a day or two. Prior to the procedure, the patient would be advised of certain investigations like carotid Doppler, echocardiogram, and some basic blood investigations. Post-procedure patients would be advised to modify their lifestyles and take medications like antiplatelets and anticoagulants for a period of time. A regular follow-up with a cardiologist or an interventional radiologist is mandated for a period of time. Carotid angioplasty is an alternative to carotid endartectomy.