Overview of the Condition

Coronary artery blockage occurs when the arteries supplying blood and oxygen to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of fatty deposits called plaque. This process is known as atherosclerosis. Reduced blood flow to the heart muscle can lead to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, fatigue, or a heart attack.

Why is it Important?

Coronary artery blockage is one of the leading causes of heart attacks and death worldwide. The prevalence of coronary arterial blockage is nearly 27% of deaths in India. Untreated blockage can lead to heart attack, heart failure, arrhythmias, or sudden cardiac death.

Who is Commonly Affected?

• Individuals above 40 years of age
• People with diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol
• Smokers
• People with obesity or sedentary lifestyle
• Those with a family history of heart disease

Causes / Risk Factors

• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Smoking and tobacco use
• Obesity
• Lack of exercise
• Unhealthy diet
• Stress
• Family history of heart disease

Common Symptoms

• Chest pain or discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue

Warning Signs

• Severe chest pain spreading to arm/jaw
• Sudden sweating or nausea
• Difficulty breathing

Treatment Options Before the Procedure

• Medications — prevent blood clots and lower cholesterol
• Lifestyle changes — balanced diet, exercise, stopping smoking

Procedures

• Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)
• Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG)
• Coronary Angiogram (CAG)
• Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) — uses sound waves to view the inside of blood vessels and detect narrowing or blockages

Procedure Overview and Preparation

What is IVUS and Why is it Done?

IVUS is an advanced imaging technique in which a tiny ultrasound probe attached to a catheter is inserted into the artery to provide detailed images from inside the blood vessel.

IVUS Helps Doctors

• Assess the severity of blockage
• Measure artery size accurately
• Evaluate plaque buildup
• Guide stent selection and placement
• Ensure proper stent expansion

Before the Procedure

• Blood tests and ECG
• Fasting for several hours before the procedure
• Inform the doctor about allergies or medications
• Temporary adjustment of blood-thinning medicines if required

Key Instructions

• Do not eat or drink as instructed
• Continue only medicines approved by your doctor
• Arrange for someone to accompany you home
• Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or have kidney disease

Step-by-Step

• You will lie on a procedure table and receive a sedative to help you relax
• The skin at the insertion site will be cleaned and numbed using local anaesthesia
• A small sheath will be inserted to guide the catheter into the blood vessel
• The IVUS catheter will be advanced to the affected artery to obtain ultrasound images
• After imaging is completed, the catheter and sheath will be removed
• A dressing will be applied at the insertion site; stitches are usually not required

Risks, Benefits and Hospital Stay

Risks and Complications

• Bleeding or bruising
• Blood vessel injury
• Allergic reaction
• Blood clot formation
• Infection

Benefits and Expected Outcomes

• IVUS helps detect blood vessel narrowing and blockages accurately and early
• The procedure does not use radiation and allows quick recovery

Duration of Hospital Stay

• Standalone IVUS — same-day discharge
• Coronary IVUS — may require overnight stay

Recovery, Lifestyle and Follow-up

Recovery and Aftercare

• Patients are monitored for several hours
• Mild soreness or bruising may occur at the catheter site
• Drink plenty of fluids unless advised otherwise
• Avoid heavy lifting for a few days

Diet

• Low-fat, low-salt diet
• More fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Avoid processed and fried foods

Long-Term Care

• Regular exercise
• Manage diabetes, BP, cholesterol
• Quit smoking

Preventing Recurrence

• Follow medications strictly
• Regular doctor visits

Myths vs Facts

Frequently Asked Questions