iliyataher

4 years

What about PCI for heart disease?

Doctor, I’ve done a research for my 57 years old uncle and found out that Percutaneous Coronary Intervention is the best treatment for heart attack. Is there any rules or regulations to undergo the procedure then? If it’s the best, I’d like my uncle to have it

Dr Ramzdhan,

2 years

"Hi there! Thank you for your question. Allow me to explain about PCI. Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) is a non-surgical procedure that uses a catheter to place a stent to open up blood vessels in the heart that have been narrowed by cholesterol buildup. It is done to improve blood flow, thus reducing heart-related chest pain. Using a special type of X-ray called fluoroscopy, the catheter is threaded through the blood vessels into the heart from blood vessels either in the groin or in the arm. Your doctor will explain the risks and benefits of the procedure. Before the procedure starts, inform your doctor if you:
o Have ever had a reaction to any dye or allergic reaction
o Have asthma.
o Have any bleeding problems or are taking blood-thinning medication.
o Have a history of kidney problems or diabetes.
o Are pregnant.

Before the procedure, you may receive a sedative to help you relax. Then hair in the groin area will be trimmed. Then an intravenous (IV) line is established. You will be monitored using an ECG and oxygen levels will be checked. Most PCIs are conducted with the patient sedated but not asleep. A local anesthetic will be injected to the area where the catheter will be inserted. Once the sedative kicks in, the catheter will be inserted. Some people feel a mild sting or pinch as the needle goes through the skin and but no drastic pain is felt. The doctor will give you pain killers if you feel too much pain. After the procedure, you will be placed at a recovery room for several hours of observation and will be asked to remain in bed for 2 to 6 hours, depending upon your specific condition. Pain medication may be given and you will be encouraged to drink water and other fluids to help flush the dye from your body. Most people spend the night in hospital after a PCI. A small bruising after the procedure is normal but not serious." Thank you.

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