What is coronary angioplasty?
Coronary angioplasty is a medical procedure that opens blocked or narrowed coronary arteries to restore blood flow to the myocardial cells. Angioplasty is performed during a coronary angiography, which makes it possible to locate lesions through visualisation. You will be offered this procedure if your doctor suspects coronary artery disease, based on your symptoms and the results of tests already carried out (cardiac ultrasound, electrocardiogram, potentially a scintigraphy or a (CT) coronary angiogram).
If angioplasty cannot be used to treat your coronary lesions, you may be offered one or more coronary artery bypass grafts (heart surgery).
How a coronary angioplasty is performed: diagnosis, procedure, balloon catheter, stent ?
A blood test is required prior to the procedure to assess:
- Coagulation (haemostasis)
- Blood count (to check for anaemia, signs of infection, abnormal platelet count, etc.)
- Kidney function.
The procedure is then carried out under local anaesthetic in hospital by an interventional cardiologist.
During the procedure, a catheter is inserted into the coronary arteries from the radial artery (located in your wrist) or the femoral artery (just below your groin). An inflatable balloon is then inserted into the artery and guided towards the narrowed area, which is clearly identified by a contrast agent injected beforehand. Once inflated, the balloon crushes the atherosclerotic plaque and enlarges the diameter of the artery. It is then deflated to reopen the blood flow pathway and restore the flow.
The surgeon will usually place an endoprosthesis, also called a stent, inside the artery once it has been widened. Stenting decreases the chance of that part of the artery narrowing again.
The procedure generally takes one to two hours. Follow-up treatment is necessary to prevent the artery from clogging again.
Who is the coronary artery specialist ?
Coronary angioplasty is performed by an interventional cardiologist. This specialist performs all heart exploratory procedures and treatments carried out by endovascular means: i.e. by introducing catheters and probes into the arteries and veins (a simple puncture rather than an incision).
Preparing for your hospital stay with ELSAN in France
How can I make an appointment ?
FAQ
How can I obtain a visa?
To obtain your visa for France, you will need to apply to the French Embassy in your country of residence. Once you have paid the care cost estimate provided by the ELSAN International Patients Department, you will be sent a letter of invitation and a certificate of payment signed by the hospital where your procedure will take place. These documents should be attached to your visa application.
What about follow-up treatment?
Depending on your personal situation, your medical team may recommend a rehabilitation hospital stay. This will be discussed with you.
How long before I can fly?
Your doctor will make specific recommendations. We suggest that you ask them to issue a Fit to Fly certificate, as depending on your medical situation, it may be necessary to respect a certain time limit in the interest of your health.
Will I be reimbursed?
For patients not covered by French health insurance, we provide an estimate of the cost of treatment. You should submit this estimate, along with your treatment plan, to your insurer to obtain their prior agreement, in accordance with your insurance policy.
In some cases insurers will pay directly (avoiding any advance payments by the policyholder) or reimburse the policyholder on proof of payment (paid invoice). This will depend on your insurance policy.