Peripheral angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition where arteries outside the heart, typically in the legs or arms, become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque. The procedure involves inserting a catheter with a small balloon on its tip into a blood vessel, usually through a small incision in the groin or arm. The catheter is guided to the site of the blockage, where the balloon is inflated to compress the plaque against the artery walls, thereby widening the artery and improving blood flow. In some cases, a stent, a small metal mesh tube, may be placed in the artery to help keep it open and reduce the risk of re-narrowing. Peripheral angioplasty is typically recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms of PAD, such as pain, cramping, numbness, or non-healing wounds in the limbs, which are due to reduced blood flow. While peripheral angioplasty is generally safe and effective, it is not without potential complications. These can include bleeding or bruising at the catheter insertion site, infection, artery damage, and blood clots. There is also a risk of restenosis, where the treated artery becomes narrow again over time, or the formation of a pseudoaneurysm at the puncture site. In rare cases, complications may lead to the need for additional surgical intervention. To minimize risks and optimize outcomes, patients must follow post-procedure care instructions and manage underlying conditions such as high cholesterol, diabetes, and hypertension.
