The heart is a beating muscle that continually pumps blood to the rest of the body. The coronary arteries supply the heart itself with the necessary oxygen and nutrients it needs to function effectively.

Over time, fatty deposits called plaque can build up inside the arteries, clogging the passages. This buildup compromises the ability of the arteries to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the heart.

A balloon angioplasty may be performed to open the narrowed arteries. A small incision is made in the thigh, and a guidewire is inserted into the femoral artery and threaded to the site of the blockage.

A catheter, holding a deflated balloon, is then guided to the blockage. The balloon is inflated, compressing the plaque and enlarging the opening of the artery. This allows blood to flow normally. The procedure may be repeated if the plaque build-up returns.

Following angioplasty, a stent may be inserted to prevent the artery from re-closing. A stent is a wire-mesh tube mounted on a deflated balloon catheter. The catheter is guided to the blockage site and inflated. The stent expands and adheres to the artery wall. The catheter and guidewire are removed, and the stent remains in place