November 15, 2024

What Conditions Can Benefit from Balloon Angioplasty?

At the forefront of vascular health, Dr. Alan Benvenisty, MD, a top vascular surgeon in NYC, offers balloon angioplasty as a minimally invasive solution to restore healthy blood flow in arteries and veins. As arteries and veins become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup or injury, blood circulation can be impaired, leading to serious health issues. Balloon angioplasty offers a highly effective treatment option for a range of vascular conditions, providing relief without the need for major surgery.

What Is Balloon Angioplasty?

Balloon angioplasty is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure used to open narrowed or blocked blood vessels. A balloon-tipped catheter is threaded through the affected artery or vein to the area of narrowing. Once in place, the balloon is inflated, compressing the plaque or blockage against the vessel walls to restore blood flow. In some cases, a stent—a small wire mesh or graft—is placed to keep the vessel open long-term.

This safe, low-risk procedure can significantly improve circulation and help prevent complications associated with poor blood flow, such as heart attacks or strokes. Balloon angioplasty has become a standard treatment for several vascular conditions, offering a quick recovery time and immediate relief from symptoms.

Seven conditions that can be treated with balloon angioplasty include

1. Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a condition where cholesterol and plaque buildup causes arteries to harden and narrow. When left untreated, it can affect the aorta and its branches, limiting blood flow to vital organs. Balloon angioplasty helps reopen these blocked arteries, restoring circulation and preventing further complications.

2. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

PAD affects the arteries in the legs, arms, or lower extremities, causing symptoms like leg pain, cramping, and difficulty walking. Balloon angioplasty can relieve these symptoms by increasing blood flow to the affected limbs, improving mobility and reducing discomfort.

According to the American Heart Association, PAD affects approximately 8.5 million people in the U.S., and balloon angioplasty is a key treatment option to avoid further complications, such as tissue damage or amputation.

3. Renal Vascular Hypertension

This condition occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the kidneys become narrowed, leading to high blood pressure. Balloon angioplasty opens these arteries, improving kidney function and helping control hypertension.

4. Carotid Artery Stenosis

When the carotid arteries in the neck become narrowed, it restricts blood flow to the brain, increasing the risk of a stroke. Balloon angioplasty can open these arteries, and in some cases, a stent is placed to prevent future narrowing.

5. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

CAD occurs when the arteries supplying the heart with oxygen-rich blood become blocked, often leading to chest pain or heart attacks. Balloon angioplasty improves blood flow to the heart, alleviating symptoms and reducing the risk of life-threatening cardiac events.

6. Venous Narrowing in the Chest, Abdomen, or Pelvis

Venous angioplasty treats blockages in central veins that affect circulation in the upper body, chest, or abdomen. This improves blood flow and helps alleviate symptoms like swelling and fatigue.

7. Narrowing in Dialysis Fistula or Grafts

For patients undergoing dialysis, proper blood flow through a fistula or graft is essential. Balloon angioplasty ensures that the dialysis graft remains open and functional, allowing for life-saving dialysis treatments to continue without interruption.

A Minimally Invasive Solution for Long-Term Health

Balloon angioplasty offers patients the benefits of a less invasive treatment with faster recovery times compared to open surgery. Patients experience minimal discomfort and can often return to daily activities within days of the procedure. In cases where a stent is placed, it helps the vessel stay open, reducing the risk of future blockages.

At Dr. Alan Benvenisty’s practice in NYC, patients receive advanced, patient-centered care from an expert in vascular health. If you are experiencing symptoms related to narrowed arteries or veins, balloon angioplasty may provide the relief you need.

Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Benvenisty and learn more about how balloon angioplasty can improve your vascular health.