What's the Difference Between Angiography and Angioplasty?

The heart is a complex structure, and the terminology describing the tests, procedures, and conditions surrounding it is just as complicated. 

So, if your doctor recently asked you to get an angiography, you might wonder how it differs from an angioplasty. After all, they sound pretty similar, right?

At Advanced Cardiovascular Care in Riverside, California, board-certified cardiologist Dr. Syed W. Bokhari strives to provide clear explanations and expert care to help you understand your heart health. 

Below, we break down the key differences between an angiography and an angioplasty so you can feel informed and confident about your upcoming procedure.

Angiography explained — what it is and how it works

Angiography gives Dr. Bokhari a clear look at the arteries in your heart, neck, or legs which supply blood to the organs. If there's concern about plaque buildup, this procedure helps him pinpoint the issue and determine if you need any further treatments.

During the procedure, Dr. Bokhari inserts a thin tube (called sheath), usually into an artery in your wrist or the groin. He then advances a catheter (a hollow tube) to the desired location and injects a dye through that catheter to let him see how blood flows through your arteries on an X-ray. That makes it easy to spot narrowing or blockages that could raise your risk of a heart attack, stroke or peripheral arterial disease (PAD).

Though you might notice a brief, warm sensation or a strange taste from the dye, the procedure is typically comfortable and safe. 

When is an angiography necessary?

Dr. Bokhari may recommend angiography if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, vision problems, weakness or pain in your legs upon walking that goes away with rest. These signs could indicate a blockage in your arteries. 

Angioplasty 101 — what is it and how does it help?

If Dr. Bokhari finds significant narrowing in your arteries, angioplasty and/or stenting may be the next step. During this minimally invasive procedure, he places a small stent in the artery to keep it open and ensure blood flows properly to your heart, brain or legs. 

Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that opens clogged or narrowed arteries in the heart. Dr. Bokhari inserts a small balloon through a thin, flexible tube called a catheter, guiding it toward the blocked artery. Once it’s in place, he inflates the balloon to push away plaque buildup against the artery walls, allowing blood to flow more freely.

If you’re experiencing any of the above mentioned symptoms from plaque build up in your arteries, angioplasty and stenting can quickly help restore your circulation. Stenting is an excellent option especially if you’re not a candidate for more invasive surgery, offering a safe, effective alternative solution.

Why would your doctor recommend an angioplasty?

Dr. Bokhari may perform angioplasty if you have narrowed or blocked arteries causing symptoms like: 

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Weakness in your arms or legs
• A history of a TIA (mini stroke)
• A feeling of pressure or tightness in your chest
• Pain that spreads to your shoulder, neck, or jaw

The goal is simple: to help you feel better by easing your symptoms and preventing serious problems like a heart attack.

Whether you need an angiography or angioplasty, we can help you understand your options so you can make an informed decision about the next steps in your care plan.

To learn more about these procedures, book a consultation with Dr. Bokhari today. Call 951-682-6900 or request an appointment online.