An angiogram is an imaging test that uses x-rays to look at the blood vessels in your body. An angioplasty is a procedure that is used to clear blockages in the arteries. In this post, we will explain the difference between an angiogram and an angioplasty.
What is Angiogram?
An Angiogram is a diagnostic test used to visualize the blood vessels in the body. The test is performed by injecting a contrast agent into the arteries and then taking X-ray images of the arteries. The contrast agent allows the arteries to be seen more clearly in the X-ray images. Angiograms are useful for diagnosing problems with the blood vessels, such as blockages or narrowing of the arteries. They can also be used to assess the effects of treatment for vascular conditions. Angiograms are typically performed on an outpatient basis, and take around 30 minutes to complete.
What is Angioplasty?
- Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to open blocked or narrowed arteries. The procedure is typically performed using a long, thin tube called a catheter. A balloon is then inflated at the tip of the catheter, which expands the artery and restores normal blood flow. Angioplasty is often used to treat coronary artery disease, which can lead to heart attacks.
- The procedure can also be used to treat other conditions that cause narrowing of the arteries, such as peripheral artery disease. Angioplasty is generally safe and effective, but there are some risks associated with the procedure. These risks include bleedings, blood clots, and damage to the artery wall. Angioplasty is usually performed on an outpatient basis, which means that patients can go home the same day as the procedure.
- Recovery times vary depending on the individual, but most people are able to return to their normal activities within a few days. Angioplasty is an important tool in the treatment of cardiovascular disease, and it can improve the quality of life for many people.
Difference between Angiogram and Angioplasty
- Angiogram Angioplasty is a diagnostic procedure and a therapeutic procedure respectively. An angiogram is an x-ray of the arteries. It is also called an arteriogram. Angiography uses special dye and photography to show how blood flows through arteries. Angioplasty is the opening of a blocked or narrowed artery. It is also called Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty (PTA).
- A balloon-tipped catheter is inserted into the aperture of the blocked artery. When the balloon is inflated, it compresses the plaque against the artery walls, widening the lumen and restoring blood flow. Angioplasty may be combined with stenting, where a mesh tube called a stent is placed in the artery to keep it from narrowing again.
- Both angiography and angioplasty are minimally invasive procedures that are performed with local anesthesia. Angiograms are performed in a hospital radiology department while angioplasties are performed in a hospital catheterization laboratory, also called a cath lab.
Conclusion
Although both angiogram and angioplasty are used to treat blocked arteries, they are two different procedures. An angiogram is a diagnostic procedure that uses x-rays to see how well your blood vessels work. Angioplasty is the treatment of choice for most blockages and is a minimally invasive procedure in which a small balloon is inflated inside the artery to open it up.
