Percutaneous coronary intervention is a coronary artery disease treatment used to open blockages in the coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis, which is the build-up of cholesterol deposits (called plaque) in the arteries. Atherosclerosis develops over many years and causes narrowing of the space through which blood can flow, decreasing the amount of blood reaching the heart.
Percutaneous coronary intervention, also known as coronary angioplasty, uses several methods to enable increased blood flow into the heart:
Percutaneous coronary intervention often greatly improves blood flow through the coronary arteries and the heart, often helping patients avoid the need for coronary artery bypass surgery, or CABG surgery, a much more invasive procedure.
Patients seeking percutaneous coronary intervention or other artery disease treatment will find expert and compassionate care at the Shapiro Cardiovascular Center at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston.
The Carl J. and Ruth Shapiro Cardiovascular Center at Brigham and Women's Hospital provides patients with a world-class facility and expert physicians specializing in comprehensive cardiovascular care, including percutaneous coronary intervention. The Center's Cardiovascular Medicine division is equipped with robotics and sophisticated imaging equipment for innovative and interventional procedures. Percutaneous coronary intervention and many other procedures are performed in a seamless, coordinated environment, allowing better collaboration between the team of specialists and staff.
In addition to percutaneous coronary intervention, physicians may recommend a variety of other treatment methods, including:
Learn more about Percutaneous Coronary Intervention at Brigham and Women's Hospital.
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