Blocked arteries can lead to serious cardiovascular complications, including heart attacks, strokes, and limb-threatening conditions. Angioplasty and stenting are minimally invasive vascular treatments that restore proper blood flow by widening narrowed or blocked arteries. These procedures are highly effective for treating peripheral artery disease (PAD), coronary artery disease (CAD), and carotid artery disease, helping patients prevent life-threatening complications and improve their overall quality of life.
At Vascular Surgery Associates, our board-certified vascular specialists in Los Angeles and Santa Monica offer advanced angioplasty and stenting procedures, using the latest technology to provide safe, effective, and long-lasting results.
What Causes Blocked Arteries?
Arteries can become blocked due to plaque buildup, inflammation, or blood clots, restricting oxygen-rich blood from reaching vital organs and tissues. This condition, known as atherosclerosis, develops gradually over time and is often influenced by:
High Cholesterol
Excess LDL cholesterol contributes to plaque formation in the arteries
High Blood Pressure
Damages arterial walls, making them prone to narrowing and blockages
Smoking
Increases plaque buildup and reduces oxygen flow to tissues
Diabetes
Causes blood vessel damage, increasing the risk of artery blockages
Obesity & Sedentary Lifestyle
Leads to poor circulation and higher cholesterol levels
Family History of Vascular Disease
Genetics play a role in susceptibility to atherosclerosis
Without treatment, blocked arteries can result in severe complications, such as heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease (PAD), which may lead to amputation in severe cases.
How Angioplasty & Stenting Work to Restore Blood Flow
Angioplasty – Widening Narrowed Arteries
Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to open blocked arteries and improve circulation. During the procedure:
- A small catheter with a deflated balloon is inserted into the blocked artery.
- The balloon is inflated, pushing the plaque against the artery walls to widen the passageway.
- Once the artery is open, the balloon is removed, restoring normal blood flow.
Angioplasty is often performed alongside stenting to ensure the artery remains open long-term.
Stenting – Keeping the Artery Open
A stent is a tiny, mesh-like tube that helps keep the artery open after angioplasty. It is:
- Placed inside the artery to reinforce the walls and prevent re-narrowing
- Made from biocompatible metal or drug-coated materials
- Designed to stay in place permanently, supporting blood flow
Together, angioplasty and stenting provide a highly effective, minimally invasive solution for blocked arteries, preventing serious complications like heart attacks, strokes, and limb loss.
Who is a Candidate for Angioplasty & Stenting?
Patients experiencing symptoms of arterial blockages or those diagnosed with coronary artery disease, carotid artery disease, or peripheral artery disease (PAD) may be good candidates for angioplasty and stenting.
Symptoms that may indicate severe arterial narrowing or blockages include:
- Leg pain or cramping when walking (claudication)
- Numbness, weakness, or coldness in the limbs
- Non-healing wounds or ulcers on the legs and feet
- Chest pain (angina) due to coronary artery blockages
- Dizziness or vision problems from carotid artery narrowing
At Vascular Surgery Associates, our specialists will evaluate your vascular health, perform advanced imaging tests, and determine the most effective treatment plan.
Benefits of Angioplasty & Stenting
Minimally invasive angioplasty and stenting offer significant advantages over traditional open surgery, including:
Shorter recovery time
Patients typically return home the same day or after a short hospital stay
Lower risk of complications
Reduced chance of infection and blood loss compared to open surgery
No large incisions
Performed using a small catheter, minimizing scarring and discomfort
High success rate
Restores blood flow with long-lasting results
Prevention of severe complications
Reduces risk of heart attack, stroke, and limb amputation
These benefits make angioplasty and stenting one of the most effective treatments for vascular blockages.
Frequently Asked Questions About Angioplasty & Stenting
Angioplasty significantly improves blood flow, but lifestyle changes and medications are often necessary to prevent future blockages. Stents help keep the artery open long-term.
Angioplasty and stenting usually take 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the severity of the blockage and the number of arteries treated.
Most patients resume normal activities within a few days, with minimal restrictions. Heavy lifting and strenuous activities should be avoided for about a week.
While the procedure is safe and effective, potential risks include re-narrowing of the artery (restenosis), blood clots, or minor bleeding at the catheter insertion site. However, advanced stent technology and blood-thinning medications help minimize these risks.
Yes, patients typically need blood-thinning medications for a period of time to prevent clot formation around the stent and ensure long-term success.
Dedicated to Excellence in Vascular Care Since 1963
Vascular Surgery Associates (VSA) has established itself as a cornerstone of vascular health in Southern California, combining decades of experience with cutting-edge treatment methods. Founded by visionary surgeons in 1963, our practice has grown from pioneering beginnings into one of the busiest and most respected vascular surgery groups in the Western United States.
Expert Angioplasty & Stenting in Los Angeles & Santa Monica – Restore Healthy Circulation Today
Blocked arteries can lead to life-threatening complications, but minimally invasive angioplasty and stenting can restore blood flow, relieve symptoms, and prevent future health risks. At Vascular Surgery Associates, our top vascular specialists in Los Angeles and Santa Monica provide cutting-edge, patient-centered care to help patients achieve optimal vascular health.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn if angioplasty and stenting are the right treatment options for you.