Coronary artery disease is one of those conditions that affects millions of people. Some people have no idea that they have it. Basically, not getting a diagnosis can be deadly. The condition is characterized by a weak artery that can lead to the heart’s inability to release enough blood and oxygen to the rest of the body. In some cases, the condition can be a genetic. In other cases, it can be related to diet. Ideally, you want to get diagnosed, because there are many artery disease treatment options that could save your life. Plus, it is important to catch the condition before it turns into a major life-threatening issue. Here are some treatment options for coronary artery disease.
- Balloon angioplasty. This is a minimally invasive surgery that entails installing a balloon in the wall of the artery. When the balloon is inserted, the surgeon will inflate it with air. Once the balloon is expanded, the blood can flow a lot more easily to the heart, and the heart can pump oxygen and blood through the body.
- An arterial stent. Another option is to have a surgery where a stent is installed in the artery. This is another minimally invasive surgery that will allow the blood to flow in and out of the heart. One of the benefits of an arterial stent is that it is more permanent than a balloon. Typically, a stent is worn for multiple years until it becomes weak and then a new one must be installed. Ideally, you want to speak to a specialized surgeon about this option, because it may not be the best option for you. There are many specialized centers, like the Vascular & Interventional Pavilion, where you can speak with a surgeon about your options.
- Beating heart surgery. When it comes to open heart surgeries, which are invasive, you may want to go with a beating heart surgery. This surgery is usually completed while the heart is still beating. Indeed, this surgery is risky, but it can be successful if it is done by a surgeon that is specialized in open heart surgeries. When the chest cavity is open, the surgeon will work to minimize the blockage in the artery.
- Bypass surgery. Another invasive surgery is a customary bypass surgery, which is not done while the heart is beating. Of course, this surgery is risky, but it can be comforting to know that the surgery is regularly performed – typically with great results. What the surgeon will do is remove a section of the coronary artery and then add a section of artery from the leg or arm to replace the diseased section.
- Pharmaceutical intervention. On top of everything, you may want to think about a pharmaceutical intervention. This simply means that you take medication to allow your arteries to expand. The truth of the matter is that pharmaceutical intervention is often the least invasive, but there may be a lot of side effects to deal with. In the end, you certainly want to speak with your doctor about your options.