Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) in London
Treatment for Chest Pain & Heart Attacks
If you're seeking expert care in London for coronary artery disease, Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) may be the solution you need. Dr. De Silva, a consultant interventional cardiologist with extensive experience at prestigious London hospitals, specialising in undertaking PCI procedures. across a broad range of coronary disease with a particular interest in complex or multi-vessel disease.
What is Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI)?
A coronary angioplasty, or PCI, is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat coronary artery disease (CAD). When the coronary arteries, the blood vessels supplying your heart, become narrowed or blocked, blood flow to the heart muscle is restricted. This restriction leads to chest pain, also known as angina (link to angina)
PCI involves unblocking these narrowed arteries using X-ray imaging to guide catheters with special dye (contrast) used to visualise the coronary arteries. In its simplest form, a PCI involves manoeuvring a wire into a coronary artery, followed by inflating a small balloons to modify and prepare the artery prior to a stent (metal scaffold) is permanently placed to maintain blood flow. In some cases, advanced imaging techniques, such as ultrasound or OCT is used to characterise disease. Additionally, pressure assessment of vessel flow is also undertaken with a dedicated pressure wire, are used to assess the severity of the blockage.
​ When is PCI Recommended?
Dr De Silva may recommend PCI if you experience:
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Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease, such as chest pain (angina) and shortness of breath.
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Evidence of impaired blood flow to the heart on non-invasive tests.
Risks and Complications
While PCI is generally safe, potential risks include:
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Bleeding or bruising at the insertion site.
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Damage to blood vessels.
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Kidney injury from the contrast dye.
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Heart attack.
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Stroke
What to expect with PCI?
A PCI procedure is typically a day-case procedure, depending on the technical complexity it may last between one and four hours. You may be able to return home the same day, although an overnight stay may be required in some cases.
Before the Procedure:
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You will need to attend a pre-assessment clinic, either by telephone or in person.
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You will need to fast for a specified period before the procedure.
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Your medications will be reviewed, and you may be advised to stop taking some of them temporarily.
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During the Procedure:
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You will be given a local anaesthetic to numb the area where the catheter is inserted (usually the radial artery in the wrist, but occasional the femoral artery in the groin.).
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The cardiologist will insert a thin tube (catheter) into an artery and guide it to the affected coronary artery using X-ray imaging.
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A contrast dye will be injected to make the arteries visible on the X-ray.
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A small balloon will be inflated to widen the narrowed artery.
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A stent (a small, expandable metal mesh tube) will usually be inserted to keep the artery open.
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After the Procedure:
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You will be monitored in a recovery area for a few hours.
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You will need to lie flat for a period to prevent bleeding from the catheter insertion site.
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You will be given medication, such as aspirin and another anti-platelet blood thinning drug, to help prevent blood clots.
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You will be given instructions on caring for the insertion site and managing any discomfort.
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You will be advised about when you can return to normal activities, such as work and driving.
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Driving
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You will not be able to drive for a period of time after the procedure. The exact length of time will depend on your individual circumstances and the advice of Dr De Silva. You may also need to inform the Driving and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) that you have had a PCI procedure.
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Alternatives to PCI
Alternatives to PCI include medical therapy or if the constellation of disease is less favourable for stent implantation, coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery may be considered. Dr De Silva will discuss the most appropriate treatment option for you.
Dr. De Silva: Your London Interventional Cardiologist
Dr. De Silva, a highly skilled interventional cardiologist, provides guidance about management of coronary disease and planning of PCI procedures. He practices out of london's leading private hospitals with extensive experience and a commitment to patient care, Dr. De Silva can help you regain your heart health.
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Contact Information
For booking inquiries, please contact Dr. De Silva's booking team.