Chest pain (angina) can be a symptom of a blocked coronary artery that is preventing proper blood flow to the heart. CTO (chronic total occlusion) occurs when the artery is completely blocked for an extended period of time.
PCI (percutaneous coronary intervention) is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional, open-heart bypass surgery (CABG) in order to relieve strain on the heart and symptoms of fatigue, chest pain and shortness of breath. Your Heart Team will help you determine the best treatment plan.
For more information or to make an appointment, call (615) 515-1900.
How it works:
- A local anesthetic will numb the area where your doctor will make a small incision.
- Your doctor will insert a small tube (about the size of a pencil) through the artery to clear the blockage.
- The delivery tube will inflate and deflate a tiny balloon to stretch the artery.
- A mesh stent may also be inserted to hold the artery open.
- When the artery is clear, your doctor will remove the tube.
