When blood vessels become narrowed or blocked, the heart can’t function the way it should. Restricted blood flow puts extra strain on the cardiovascular system and may lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, or more serious conditions. Left untreated, these issues can limit physical activity and impact overall health.
At Shaheen Vascular in Mountain View, CA, we treat these conditions using angioplasties and stents. These minimally invasive procedures can open narrowed arteries and support proper blood flow. By restoring circulation, they help reduce symptoms and lower the risk of future complications.
Angioplasty is a minimally invasive treatment that opens narrowed or blocked arteries to restore healthy blood flow. The procedure uses a small balloon, guided through a catheter, to gently press plaque against the artery walls and widen the vessel. It can relieve symptoms like chest pain or leg discomfort caused by restricted circulation. Angioplasty is often used as an alternative to open surgery for treating cardiovascular blockages.
A stent is a tiny, expandable mesh tube used to hold an artery open after angioplasty. Once placed, it stays in position permanently to support the vessel and reduce the chance of future narrowing. In a blocked artery, a stent helps maintain blood flow by preventing collapse or buildup in the treated area. Some stents are coated with medication to discourage scar tissue and re-narrowing.
When a blocked blood vessel limits circulation, the heart and limbs do not get the oxygen-rich blood they need to function well. These blockages can cause pain, restrict movement, and lead to more serious problems if left untreated. Angioplasties and stents allow us to restore circulation without open surgery to give your body a better chance to function normally again. These treatments may be needed when lifestyle changes and medications are not enough.
Plaque buildup in the arteries of the legs can narrow the vessels and limit blood supply. This often causes leg fatigue, pain with walking, or wounds that will not heal properly. Treating the narrowed vessels can reduce discomfort and lower the risk of limb-related complications.
When the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed, the heart works harder to pump. This added stress can lead to chest pain or increase the risk of a heart attack. Angioplasty and stenting can improve circulation and reduce pressure on the heart.
Symptoms related to poor circulation often improve with better blood flow. You may notice relief from:
When we treat arterial blockages early, we reduce the chance of more severe complications. Addressing restricted blood flow can help prevent heart attacks, strokes, and limb-threatening infections. These interventions can be important for maintaining long-term health and mobility.
Other conditions that can be treated with angioplasties and stents include:
We begin with angiography to identify the exact location and severity of the blockage. We insert a catheter through a blood vessel in the groin or wrist and guide it to the area of concern. Once in place, we inject contrast dye through the catheter, allowing the arteries to appear clearly on a fluoroscopy image. These live X-rays show how blood moves through the vessels, helping us determine the next steps.
After identifying the narrowed artery, we insert a second catheter fitted with a small balloon at the tip. We position the balloon at the blockage and inflate it to press plaque against the artery wall. This widens the vessel and creates more space for blood to circulate. In some cases, balloon angioplasty alone provides enough improvement in flow without additional intervention.
When an artery risks narrowing again or losing structure, we place a stent to reinforce it. We deliver the stent through the same catheter used for the balloon, then expand it so it fits securely within the artery. Once placed, the stent remains in the artery permanently and supports continuous blood flow.
We complete the procedure by removing the catheter and closing the access point using gentle pressure, a closure device, or sutures, depending on the location. Patients stay in a recovery area for monitoring, where we check heart rhythm, blood pressure, and the catheter site. Most remain flat for a short period to reduce the risk of bleeding. In many cases, discharge occurs the same day, although some may stay overnight based on the complexity of treatment. We recommend avoiding heavy physical activity while the site heals.
We begin by reviewing your medical history, symptoms, and any previous testing to evaluate whether angioplasty and stenting are appropriate. We ask about issues such as chest discomfort, leg pain during activity, or shortness of breath. Depending on your condition, we may review existing imaging or order updated studies like an ultrasound, CT angiogram, or stress test. The goal is to assess the severity and location of the blockage and determine if this treatment is the right option to improve circulation.
Before the procedure, we provide clear instructions based on your medical needs and the type of treatment planned. Some patients may need to pause certain medications, including blood thinners or drugs for diabetes. Transportation arrangements are important, since you will need someone to drive you home and stay with you while you recover.
After the procedure, we monitor your vital signs and the catheter site for several hours. You may feel groggy from sedation, but most patients remain awake during recovery. We will check for any bleeding or bruising at the access point and make sure your blood pressure stays stable.
Take it easy for a few days while the access site heals. Avoid lifting anything heavy, climbing stairs frequently, or doing strenuous activity. Walking short distances is safe and encouraged, as long as you move slowly and listen to your body. Keep the dressing clean and dry, and watch for swelling or warmth near the entry area.
We schedule your first follow-up visit within a week or two after the procedure. At that appointment, we check your incision site, review your symptoms, and make sure your recovery is on track. You may need additional imaging to confirm that the artery is staying open and that blood is flowing properly. Some patients return for periodic check-ins depending on their condition and the number of stents placed.
Angioplasty and stent procedures can improve blood flow and reduce symptoms like chest pain, leg cramping, or shortness of breath. Many patients notice increased energy and better tolerance for physical activity once circulation improves. The goal is to restore function and help prevent future complications related to poor blood supply.
While complications are uncommon, no procedure is risk-free. Possible risks include bleeding at the catheter site, artery damage, or allergic reactions to contrast dye. In rare cases, the artery may narrow again, or a blood clot can form inside the stent. We review your health history carefully to reduce these risks and monitor you closely during and after the procedure. Most side effects are minor and resolve with proper care.
We typically recommend angioplasty and stenting for patients with narrowed or blocked arteries who have not responded well to medication or lifestyle changes. You may be a good candidate if you have chest pain, leg pain with activity, shortness of breath, or non-healing wounds caused by poor circulation. Patients with multiple medical conditions or prior surgeries may still qualify, depending on the situation.
Improving blood flow with a stent does not stop plaque from forming in other areas, so daily habits still matter. We often recommend changes like stopping smoking, increasing physical activity, and adjusting your diet to support heart and vascular health. Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels can also help protect your arteries long-term. You will likely continue with medications, regular checkups, and possibly supervised exercise.
Most angioplasty and stent procedures take between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on how complex the blockage is and how many arteries we treat. If we need to do additional imaging or work on multiple vessels, the process may take longer. You should also plan for extra time before and after the procedure for preparation and recovery.
We typically use local anesthesia and light sedation to help you relax, so you stay awake but feel drowsy. You should not feel pain, though you may notice some pressure or mild discomfort as we guide the catheter and inflate the balloon. Because you remain conscious, we can talk with you and monitor your condition in real time.
Some patients may need another procedure if the artery narrows again or if new blockages form in other areas. We track your progress closely with follow-up appointments and imaging to catch any changes early.
Dr. Shaheen brings advanced training in both vascular and endovascular surgery, with education from Stanford and Northwestern. He offers a wide range of minimally invasive treatments and collaborates with other specialists to provide solutions that are not commonly available elsewhere. Patients benefit from his experience, attention to detail, and willingness to combine techniques when needed to improve outcomes. At our Mountain View clinic, we focus on clear communication, careful planning, and effective treatment strategies that put patient needs first.
Angioplasty and stents can help restore circulation, reduce symptoms, and lower the risk of serious complications from blocked arteries. Patients in Mountain View, CA, can access both standard and advanced treatment options under the care of a highly trained vascular specialist. At Shaheen Vascular, we evaluate each case carefully and use precise techniques to improve outcomes. To schedule a consultation, call (650) 965-1909 or contact us using the online form.