Peripheral Angioplasty

Published with the inputs from Dr Ranjish A T, Senior Consultant, Vascular Surgery, Baby Memorial Hospitals- Kozhikode

Peripheral angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to open blocked or narrowed arteries outside the heart, most commonly in the legs (peripheral artery disease – PAD). By restoring blood flow, angioplasty relieves pain, improves mobility, and prevents complications like ulcers or gangrene and amputation (major limb loss)

What is peripheral angioplasty?

 Peripheral Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure to open narrowed or blocked arteries by inflating a small balloon inside the artery. Sometimes  a stent  (metal mesh tube)to places to keep the artery open. 

Why is peripheral angioplasty done?

It is performed to treat peripheral artery disease (PAD), which causes reduced blood flow to the legs. Symptoms include:

• Leg pain or cramps while walking (claudication), Rest Pain
• Numbness, weakness, or heaviness in the legs
• Non-healing wounds or ulcers on feet/toes
• Risk of limb-threatening gangrene if untreated leading to amputation. 

How is peripheral angioplasty performed?

• A thin catheter is inserted through a small pin hole puncture in the groin or wrist
• The catheter is guided to the blocked artery under fluoroscopic x ray guidance
• Lesion crossed with a wire
• A balloon is inflated to widen the artery, and a stent may be placed
• The procedure usually takes 1–2 hours and is done under local anesthesia or with sedation

Is peripheral angioplasty safe?

Yes. It is a safe and commonly performed procedure. Risks like bleeding, infection, or re-narrowing of the artery (restenosis) are possible but minimized in advanced cardiac centers.

What is recovery like after peripheral angioplasty?

• Most patients are discharged within 24-48 hours
• Walking is encouraged soon after the procedure
• Return to normal activities in a few days
• Medications (blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering drugs) are needed to maintain artery health

Is angioplasty better than bypass surgery for blocked leg arteries?

• Angioplasty: Minimally invasive, faster recovery, less hospital stay — ideal for many patients
• Bypass surgery: Recommended in very severe or long blockages
• The choice depends on the extent of artery disease, patient health, and surgeon’s advice.

What lifestyle changes are needed after angioplasty?

• Stop smoking
• Maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine
• Control diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol
• Take prescribed medicines regularly
• These changes help prevent further blockages. 
• Follow up at regular intervals

Connect with Our Experts Today

If you are experiencing leg pain, non-healing wounds, or other symptoms of poor circulation, the Cardiology & Vascular Intervention Team at Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) offers advanced peripheral angioplasty and stenting with expert care and long-term support.

👉 Book an Appointment Online or visit BMH to consult our specialists.