Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty and nursing implications

Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty is a new procedure used in the treatment of coronary artery disease. The procedure involves the use of a small balloon-tipped catheter that is advanced into the stenotic coronary artery. The soft atheroma is compressed against the arterial wall by the inflation of the balloon across the lesion, thereby reducing the stenosis. Preoperative nursing care of the PTCA patient includes thorough assessment and preoperative teaching. Post-operative nursing care involves close assessment and prompt attention to potential complications.