This content has been prepared for informational purposes to protect public health, in compliance with the regulations of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Turkey and medical ethical rules. It does not provide any diagnosis, treatment guarantees, or specific medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for the most accurate information.
PTCA (Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty) is the widening of coronary artery stenoses with a balloon. It forms the foundation of modern coronary interventions. This comprehensive guide covers the history, indications, and current applications of PTCA in detail.
What is PTCA?#
PTCA is the widening of coronary artery stenoses with a balloon at the catheter tip. It was first performed by Andreas Grüntzig in 1977.
History of PTCA:
- 1977: First PTCA
- 1986: First stent
- 1990s: Drug-coated stents
- Today: Modern PCI
PTCA Indications#
PTCA Alone#
- Small vessels
- Situations where stent placement is difficult
- Temporary treatment
PTCA Before Stent#
- Predilation
- Lesion preparation
- For stent passage
PTCA After Stent#
- Postdilation
- Optimal expansion
- Malapposition correction
How is PTCA Performed?#
Balloon Types#
Semi-Compliant Balloon:
- For predilation
- Flexible structure
- Low pressure
Non-Compliant Balloon:
- For postdilation
- High pressure
- Stent expansion
Cutting Balloon:
- Calcified lesions
- In-stent restenosis
- Fibrotic lesions
Procedure Steps#
- Vascular access: Radial or femoral
- Guide catheter: To coronary ostium
- Guidewire: Through lesion
- Balloon placement: Over lesion
- Balloon inflation: At specific pressure
- Balloon deflation: Result evaluation
- Re-inflation: If needed
Procedure Duration#
Total time: 15-60 minutes
PTCA Results#
Success Criteria#
- Residual stenosis <50%
- TIMI 3 flow
- No dissection
- No complications
Complications#
- Dissection
- Acute occlusion
- Perforation
- Spasm
- Slow flow
PTCA vs Stent#
| Feature | PTCA | Stent |
|---|---|---|
| Restenosis | 30-40% | 5-10% |
| Acute occlusion | Higher | Lower |
| Antiplatelet | Short-term | Long-term |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
PTCA Today#
In modern practice, PTCA is usually performed together with stent implantation. PTCA alone is preferred in rare situations.
PTCA Alone Indications:
- Very small vessels (<2mm)
- Situations where stent placement is technically difficult
- Temporary bridge therapy
Frequently Asked Questions#
What is the difference between PTCA and stent?
Will the vessel narrow again after PTCA?
Is PTCA painful?
How long does PTCA take?
When will I be discharged after PTCA?
Appointment and Contact#
To schedule an appointment for PTCA evaluation:
📍 Avrasya Hospital - Beştelsiz Mah. 101. Sokak No:107, Zeytinburnu, Istanbul
📞 Phone: +90 212 665 50 50 (Ext: 4012)
This content was prepared by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Habib Çil for general informational purposes. Please consult a cardiology specialist for definitive diagnosis and treatment.