Angioplasty

During angioplasty, a thin tube is threaded into the section of an artery that is blocked. The tube has a tiny balloon at the tip, which is inflated inside the affected area. This presses plaque into the artery walls, opening up the artery, so that blood flow is restored. You may remain awake for the procedure, which takes one to two hours. Carotid artery angioplasty (neck or brain) helps prevent strokes. Mesenteric artery angioplasty (stomach) can solve pain and digestion problems. Renal artery angioplasty (kidneys) relieves high blood pressure or kidney problems. Peripheral angioplasty (pelvis, thigh or leg) eases walking pain.