Calcification of blood vessels. The cardiac balloon catheter is inserted into an artery in the arm or leg. Fluoroscopy provides guidance for the catheter to pass through the artery to the heart. Blood-pressure readings are taken, and the heart's ability to pump blood is tested. The catheter is guided into the coronary-artery system.
Fluoroscopy allows identification of any disease in the coronary arteries.
The catheter is passed through the occlusion, the balloon is inflated, and the occlusion is compressed, allowing blood to flow through once again. When all examinations have been completed, the catheter balloon is withdrawn, and the artery is compressed until bleeding stops. The skin is closed with several sutures, which usually can be removed about 1 week after surgery. Dislodged plaque that escapes suction. Chemical irritation from dye used in x-ray studies.