Diseases caused by problems that block the coronary (feeding the heart) vessels are called ‘coronary vessel disease’. Some plaques, popularly called ‘atherosclerosis’, can prevent the flow of blood in these veins. Chest pain that occurs with rapid fatigue with the obstruction of blood flow is seen. Complete occlusion of the vein causes the dangerous picture we call ‘heart attack’, which is life-threatening and can result in death.

IS IT POSSIBLE TO AVOID THIS TABLE?

The blockage of the artery can cause a life-threatening ‘heart attack’ that can result in death. That’s why; Considering the risk of coronary artery disease, every chest pain should be questioned. The cause of chest pain, especially when walking and climbing stairs, should be investigated. In fact, anyone with chest pain should go to the doctor! Because if patients suffering from chest pain or having a heart attack apply to a health institution without wasting time, it is possible to detect and open these veins instantly. In an other saying; Cardiac muscle damage due to vascular occlusion can be prevented by intervention within the first six hours to patients who have had a heart attack. Just don’t be late!

How are we in terms of treatment in coronary heart disease?

All kinds of treatment methods applied in the most developed countries of the world are also successfully performed in our country. In addition to treatment, measures should be taken to prevent the disease first. Negative factors such as bad eating habits, smoking, sedentary life should be changed. In some cases, medication is used. The vessels of the heart are visualized by the method we call coronary angiography. After determining the situation here, “Should a balloon be made? Should a stent be applied? Should surgery be done?” It is necessary to focus on the answer to this question.

How are the balloon and stent applied?

Angio plasty, popularly called ‘balloon therapy’, is a method of widening the blocked vessels of the heart with a device. It has been successfully maintained since the first day it was applied in the world. This treatment method has been applied in Turkey for about 15-16 years. After the balloon treatment, it was observed that the vessels opened after the balloon treatment were frequently blocked again, in the first applications, devices called stents, made of rusted steel mounted on the balloons, were placed in the blocked vessel. If there is a multi-angle stenosis in the vessel, it can be inserted with the stent mounted on the balloon. If the vein is too narrow and cannot be passed with a stent, the balloon is entered first, and the stent can be applied after the vein is slightly expanded. The stents are firmly mounted on the balloon. We use the balloon to place the stent inside the vein.

How is anesthesia applied during stent and balloon applications?

General anesthesia is not needed in coronary angiography , stent and balloon application. We need to be in contact with the patients while the stent and balloon are being placed. We do it by talking without putting the patient to sleep. We numb the place where we enter through the groin with local anesthesia.

When does the patient return to his normal life?

After the angiography, a rest period of 4-5 hours is required in the hospital. After the stent or balloon procedure, patients need to stay in the hospital for one day. One day after angiography, stent or balloon procedures, the patient can return to normal life.

How is the patient followed up after the treatment?

Stent , balloon application or even bypass treatment is not a radical solution. Atherosclerosis continues after these treatments. At regular intervals, the patient’s medications are reviewed, cholesterol is checked, chest pain is questioned, and an exercise test is applied. If there is a problem with the exertion test, angiography may be considered again to visualize the vessels of the heart.