By : Geraldus Sigap
The heart is a vital organ that works tirelessly to pump blood throughout the body, supplying oxygen and nutrients to every cell. However, over time, the arteries that carry blood to the heart can become narrowed or blocked due to a buildup of fatty deposits known as plaque. This condition, called coronary artery disease, can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, and even heart attacks. Fortunately, modern medical advancements have made it possible to restore blood flow to the heart without the need for open-heart surgery. One of the most effective treatments for blocked arteries is Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty (PTCA), also known as coronary angioplasty.
PTCA is a minimally invasive procedure that helps open up narrowed or blocked coronary arteries, allowing blood to flow more freely to the heart. It is typically performed using a thin, flexible tube called a catheter, which is inserted into a blood vessel in the arm or leg and guided to the affected artery. Once in position, a small balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated, pressing the plaque against the artery walls and widening the passage for blood flow.
In many cases, doctors also place a stent, a tiny mesh tube, inside the artery to keep it open and prevent it from narrowing again. The stent remains in place permanently, supporting the artery and reducing the risk of future blockages.
The entire procedure is performed under local anesthesia, meaning the patient is awake but does not feel pain. Most PTCA procedures take about one to two hours, and patients can often return home within a day or two after the treatment.
Why PTCA is an Effective Treatment for Coronary Artery Disease
PTCA has become one of the most commonly performed procedures for treating coronary artery disease because of its high success rate and faster recovery time compared to traditional heart surgery. Unlike coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), which requires open-heart surgery, PTCA is a less invasive option that does not involve large incisions or prolonged hospital stays.
The benefits of PTCA include:
- Immediate Relief from Symptoms – Many patients experience an instant improvement in chest pain and breathing as soon as blood flow is restored.
- Lower Risk of Heart Attack – By opening blocked arteries, PTCA helps reduce the likelihood of a heart attack in patients with severe coronary artery disease.
- Quick Recovery Time – Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days, making it a preferred option for those who want to return to daily life quickly.
- Minimally Invasive Procedure – Since PTCA does not require open-heart surgery, there is less pain, a lower risk of infection, and a shorter hospital stay.
Who Needs PTCA?
Doctors recommend PTCA for patients who have significant narrowing or blockages in their coronary arteries that are causing symptoms such as chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or fatigue. It is also used in emergency situations, such as during a heart attack, to quickly restore blood flow and prevent heart damage. PTCA can be done after patient undergo CT Cardiac.
PTCA may be an ideal treatment for patients who:
- Have moderate to severe coronary artery disease
- Experience frequent chest pain despite taking medications
- Have blockages that are accessible for angioplasty
- Are not candidates for open-heart surgery due to other health conditions
Before performing PTCA, doctors use diagnostic tests such as coronary angiography, stress tests, or CT scans to evaluate the severity and location of the blockages.
Figure 1. Gambaran Coronary Angiography
- Left Image (Red Arrow): This shows significant narrowing (stenosis) in a coronary artery, which indicates a restricted blood flow. This can lead to angina (chest pain), shortness of breath, or even a heart attack if left untreated.
- Right Image (Green Arrow): This shows an artery that appears to have been successfully opened, suggesting that an intervention such as Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty (PTCA) with stent placement has been performed.
The Role of Stents in PTCA
In most cases, doctors use a stent during PTCA to help keep the artery open long-term. Stents come in different types, including:
- Bare-metal stents (BMS) – Simple mesh tubes that help support the artery.
- Drug-eluting stents (DES) – Coated with medication to prevent scar tissue from forming and reducing the risk of re-narrowing.
Research has shown that drug-eluting stents are highly effective in reducing the recurrence of blockages, making them the preferred choice for many patients.
What to Expect After PTCA
Most patients can go home within 24 to 48 hours after PTCA. While some may feel slight discomfort at the catheter insertion site, full recovery is usually quick, and normal activities can be resumed within a few days.
To maintain the benefits of PTCA and prevent future blockages, doctors often recommend lifestyle changes and medications, including:
- A heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
- Regular exercise to improve heart function and circulation
- Quitting smoking, as tobacco use significantly increases the risk of arterial blockages
- Medications like blood thinners and cholesterol-lowering drugs to keep arteries clear
Regular follow-ups with a cardiologist are essential to monitor heart health and ensure the treated artery remains open.
Why PTCA is the Preferred Choice for Many Patients
Compared to bypass surgery, which requires major incisions and a longer recovery period, PTCA offers a less invasive and faster alternative for many patients with coronary artery disease. While some complex cases still require surgery, PTCA is the first-line treatment for patients with single or multiple arterial blockages that can be treated with angioplasty and stents.
Studies show that PTCA significantly improves heart function, reduces symptoms, and enhances quality of life in patients with coronary artery disease. With the advancements in stent technology and imaging techniques, the success rate of PTCA continues to improve, making it a safe and effective option for heart patients worldwide.
Advanced Heart Care at RS Abdi Waluyo
RS Abdi Waluyo is equipped with modern catheterization labs and advanced cardiac monitoring technology, making it a trusted choice for heart disease diagnosis and treatment. Patients receive comprehensive care, from initial evaluation to post-procedure follow-ups, ensuring the best long-term heart health outcomes.
Resources:
- Malik TF, Tivakaran VS. Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty [Homepage on the Internet]. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing, 2025 [cited 2025 Feb 16]; Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535417/
- Bansal A, Hiwale K. Updates in the Management of Coronary Artery Disease: A Review Article. Cureus 15(12):e50644.
- Dawson LP, Lum M, Nerleker N, Nicholls SJ, Layland J. Coronary Atherosclerotic Plaque Regression. J Am Coll Cardiol 2022;79(1):66–82.
- United Cardiology. Coronary Angiography, Angioplasty, and Stenting [Internet]. Eastwood (NSW): United Cardiology; [cited 2025 Feb 21]. Available from: https://unitedcardiology.com.au/tests-procedures/coronary-angiography-angioplasty-and-stenting/
