Chronic Total Occlusion
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- / Dr. Ravi Gupta
Chronic Total Occlusion
Coronary angiography and angioplasty are interrelated procedures used to diagnose and treat coronary artery disease (CAD). These procedures help visualize and manage blockages or narrowing in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle.
Symptoms
Angina: Chest pain or discomfort, especially during physical activity or stress.
Shortness of Breath: Due to reduced oxygen supply to the heart.
Fatigue: Generalized tiredness, often related to reduced cardiac output.
Diagnosis
Angiography: The gold standard for diagnosing CTO, involving the use of X-ray imaging to visualize the coronary arteries.
Non-invasive Tests: Such as stress tests, echocardiography, and CT angiography.
Treatment Options
Medication: To manage symptoms and reduce the risk of further cardiovascular events. Includes antiplatelets, statins, beta-blockers, and nitrates.
Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI): Also known as angioplasty, this procedure involves threading a catheter with a balloon or stent to the site of the blockage to open the artery.
Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG): Surgical option where a graft is used to bypass the blocked artery.
Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing stress.
Chronic Total Occlusions are complex but treatable, especially with advancements in interventional cardiology techniques. Managing risk factors and adhering to a treatment plan are crucial for patients with CTO.