Angiography (Angiogram)
An angiogram is x-ray imaging of the blood vessels( arteries and veins). An angiogram provides information about blood vessel abnormalities such as narrowing, blockage, inflammation, abnormal widening, and bleeding. An interventional radiologist or vascular surgeon will insert a catheter( thin tube) into the artery or vein through a small cut in the skin. Then a contrast agent(x-ray dye) is injected to make the blood vessels visible on x-ray.
Angioplasty
also known as ‘balloon angioplasty” is a minimally invasive procedure used to widen narrowed or obstructed arteries or veins. Using angiography, a deflated balloon attached to a catheter is inserted into the narrowed vessel and then inflated to a fixed size for a short time. The balloon forces expansion of the blood vessel, allowing improved blood flow.
Stents
A stent is a synthetic tube that is inserted into a blood vessel to keep it open and/or reinforce the natural structure. One type of stent MVP uses is a Drug-eluting stent. This is a stent that is coated with medication that releases over time to help decrease the risk of re-narrowing (stenosis) of the artery. A stent is placed using angiography.
Atherectomy
Atherectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that removes plaque buildup from blood vessels to improve blood flow. Atherectomy is performed using angiography.
Do you suffer from Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)? Angioplasty, Stent or Atherectomy may be a solution. Learn more here.
Thrombolysis
Thrombolysis is a treatment using pharmaceutical drugs to dissolve blood clots in arteries or veins to restore or improve blood flow.
Thrombectomy
Thrombectomy is a treatment using a device to mechanically remove blood clots from an artery or vein to restore or improve blood flow.