Difference Between Angiography And Angioplasty

Definition Angiography involves using X-rays and a contrast dye to visualize blood vessels, aiding in the detection of any abnormalities or blockages. Angioplasty is a surgical procedure performed to clear blockages in blood vessels, particularly in the context of coronary artery disease, by using a catheter with a small balloon to widen the narrowed artery. Types Includes coronary, cerebral, pulmonary, renal, reproductive, digital subtraction, magnetic resonance, computed tomography, and hepatic angiography. Includes balloon, coronary, cerebral, renal artery, PTA of the femoral artery, and carotid artery angioplasty. Need Used for diagnosing coronary artery disease, investigating blockages in various arteries, and detecting abnormalities in blood vessels. Required when experiencing symptoms like chest pain, after a heart attack, or when blockages are present in arteries supplying vital organs. Procedure Involves inserting a catheter into a blood vessel, usually in the heart, and injecting a contrast dye to visualize blood vessels on X-ray images. Often performed immediately after angiography if a blockage is found, using a catheter with a balloon to widen narrowed arteries and possibly placing a stent to maintain the opening. Risks Minor risks include bruising, soreness, or mild allergic reactions. Serious risks include kidney damage, heart attack, stroke, vessel damage, or severe allergic reactions. Risks include artery tear, blood clot formation, irregular heartbeats, and artery narrowing post-procedure. Recovery Time Depending on the complexity, patients may go home the same day or stay overnight for observation. Full recovery may take a few days to a week, with strenuous activity avoided initially. Recovery typically involves a period of rest post-procedure, with monitoring for bleeding or discomfort. Patients may be prescribed medication to prevent blood clots and advised to avoid vigorous activity for a day or two. Aftercare Aftercare involves monitoring for bleeding or discomfort, and in some cases, staying in the hospital for observation. Dressing removal and wound care are important, along with avoiding hot baths and heavy lifting. After angioplasty, aftercare may involve staying in the hospital for monitoring, taking blood-thinning medication, and avoiding vigorous exercise for a day or two; dressing changes and careful attention to puncture sites are also important. Alternatives Less invasive alternatives include CT angiography and MRI angiography. Surgical alternatives include coronary artery bypass graft (CABG). Cost Costs range from approximately Rs 20,000 to 60,000 for angiography in India, depending on the hospital and city. Angioplasty costs range from approximately Rs 70,000 to 2 lakh in India, depending on the hospital and city.