Heart-related conditions, particularly coronary artery disease, are among the leading causes of illness and mortality in India. As per the Registrar General of India’s Report on Causes of Death between 2021 and 2023, cardiovascular diseases were identified as the leading cause of death, accounting for approximately 31% of all deaths.
Modern cardiology now allows doctors to diagnose and treat blocked heart arteries using minimally invasive techniques. Angiography and angioplasty are two critical minimally invasive cath lab procedures that help identify narrowed or blocked arteries and restore blood flow to the heart muscle.
Angiography is a diagnostic medical test used to examine blood vessels inside the body. This test visualizes the arteries that supply blood to the heart. Doctors use it to identify areas where plaque buildup or artery narrowing could potentially reduce blood flow.
During a heart angiography test, a special contrast dye is injected into the blood vessels. X-ray imaging is then used to track the flow of this dye through the coronary arteries. The resulting images allow cardiologists to assess the location, severity, and number of blockages.
Angiography is considered one of the most effective methods for diagnosing coronary artery disease and is routinely performed in advanced cardiac catheterization laboratories.
Angiography is recommended when symptoms or test results suggest reduced blood supply to the heart. It helps doctors determine the cause of symptoms and plan appropriate treatment.
Angiography may be advised for patients who experience:
By clearly mapping coronary arteries, angiography helps doctors decide whether medical management, angioplasty, or surgery is most appropriate.
Coronary angiography is used to study the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle. It helps identify narrowing or blockages caused by plaque buildup and guides decisions regarding medical treatment, angioplasty, or surgery.
This test is commonly recommended for patients with chest pain, abnormal stress test results, or suspected coronary artery disease. It is performed in a cardiac catheterization laboratory under controlled conditions.
Cerebral angiography examines blood vessels in the brain and is used to evaluate conditions such as stroke, aneurysms, or abnormal vessel formations. It provides detailed images of cerebral circulation and helps doctors plan further treatment.
This procedure is usually recommended when non-invasive imaging does not provide sufficient information for diagnosis or management decisions.
Peripheral angiography is performed to assess blood flow in the arteries of the arms, legs, or abdomen.
It is commonly used in patients with peripheral artery disease, where patients experience leg pain while walking, non-healing wounds, or reduced circulation. The test helps determine the severity and location of arterial narrowing.
Renal angiography evaluates blood flow to the kidneys.
It is used to detect narrowing of renal arteries, which can contribute to uncontrolled high blood pressure or kidney dysfunction. The procedure helps guide treatment planning and further management decisions.
Angiography is usually performed under local anesthesia and mild sedation. The patient remains awake but comfortable throughout the procedure.
The steps included in the angiography procedure include:
The procedure generally takes 20 to 40 minutes. Many patients can return home the same day, depending on their condition and doctor’s advice.
Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. Unlike angiography, which is diagnostic, angioplasty is a therapeutic procedure aimed at restoring blood flow to the heart.
Angioplasty is also known as percutaneous coronary intervention. It often involves placing a small metal mesh tube called a stent inside the artery to keep it open.
By improving blood flow, angioplasty helps relieve symptoms such as chest pain and reduces the risk of heart-related complications in selected patients.
Angioplasty may be recommended when:
Not all blockages require angioplasty. The decision depends on the severity of narrowing, symptoms, number of arteries involved, and overall heart function.
Angioplasty is often performed immediately after diagnostic angiography if a treatable blockage is identified.
The angioplasty procedure typically involves the following steps:
Angioplasty, including the stent placement procedure, can take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on complexity and the number of stents placed.
Balloon angioplasty uses a small inflatable balloon to widen a narrowed artery. Once the balloon is inflated, it compresses plaque against the artery walls and improves blood flow.
This technique is less commonly used alone today, as arteries treated only with balloons have a higher chance of narrowing again over time.
Stent angioplasty involves placing a small metal mesh tube inside the artery after balloon dilation. The stent acts as a scaffold to keep the artery open and maintain blood flow.
This method is widely used and has significantly improved long-term outcomes for many patients.
Drug-eluting stent angioplasty uses stents coated with medication that slowly releases into the artery wall. The drug helps reduce excessive tissue growth inside the stent and lowers the risk of restenosis (re-narrowing of the blood vessels). These stents are commonly used in modern interventional cardiology practice.
Bioabsorbable stents are designed to gradually dissolve after providing temporary support to the artery. Their long-term benefits and indications are still being evaluated, and their use is limited to selected cases.
|
Aspect |
Angiography |
Angioplasty |
|
Purpose |
Used to diagnose narrowed or blocked blood vessels |
Used to treat narrowed or blocked blood vessels |
|
Nature of Procedure |
Diagnostic test |
Therapeutic (treatment) procedure |
|
Primary Goal |
To identify the location and severity of blockages |
To restore normal blood flow to the heart |
|
Use of Stent |
No stent is placed |
Usually involves stent placement procedure |
|
Outcome |
Helps doctors plan further treatment |
Improves blood flow and relieves symptoms |
|
Invasiveness |
Minimally invasive |
Minimally invasive |
|
Cath Lab Use |
Performed in a cardiac catheterization laboratory |
Performed in a cardiac catheterization laboratory |
A leading hospital for angioplasty treatment in India, HCG Hospitals provides comprehensive cardiac care supported by experienced cardiologists and modern infrastructure. The focus is on evidence-based treatment, patient safety, and long-term heart health.
Key strengths include:
The cost of angiography and angioplasty in India can vary depending on the city, hospital, patient condition, and type of heart stent used.
The approximate cost of angiography in India ranges between ₹3,800 and ₹30,000.
The estimated angioplasty cost in India starts from ₹40,000 with separate implant charges and goes up to ₹5,00,000, depending on the factors mentioned above.
Note: These figures are indicative and should be confirmed at the time of treatment. For detailed information on angiography and angioplasty costs, patients may consult HCG or any nearby hospital.
HCG Hospitals use modern interventional cardiology technology, including high-resolution imaging systems and internationally approved stents, to facilitate personalized care and support for patients. These tools help improve precision, safety, and outcomes.
HCG Hospitals offers comprehensive cardiac care services in all four of its units. For more information, you can get in touch with the care team at our hospitals:
HCG Hospitals, Ahmedabad – +91 635 88888 15 / +91 740 64999 99
HCG Hospitals, Bhavnagar – +91 635 88888 16 / +91 740 64999 99
HCG Hospitals, Rajkot – +91 635 88888 17 / +91 740 64999 99
HCG Suchirayu Hospital, Hubballi – 0836 223 9000 / +91 740 64999 99
Before an angiogram, the patient undergoes a detailed clinical evaluation. The doctor reviews symptoms, medical history, current medications, and previous test reports such as ECG or stress test results. Blood tests may be done to assess kidney function and overall fitness for the procedure.
Patients are usually advised to fast for 4–6 hours before the angiogram. Certain medications, especially blood thinners or diabetes medicines, may be adjusted based on medical advice. The procedure, benefits, and possible risks are explained, and informed consent is obtained.
The angiogram is performed in a cardiac catheterization laboratory under sterile conditions. The patient is awake but given local anesthesia to numb the wrist or groin area. A thin catheter is inserted into the artery and guided to the heart.
A contrast dye is injected, and X-ray images are taken to visualize blood flow through the coronary arteries. The procedure is usually painless and takes about 20–40 minutes. Vital signs are continuously monitored throughout.
After the angiogram, the catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to prevent bleeding. The patient is observed for a few hours to monitor heart rate, blood pressure, and the puncture site.
If no complications are noted, many patients can go home the same day. Doctors discuss the results and explain whether medications, angioplasty, or surgery is required. Normal activities can usually be resumed within 24 hours, as advised.
Before angioplasty, patients undergo detailed evaluation based on angiography findings. Blood tests, imaging, and medication review are performed to ensure safety.
Patients are informed about the procedure, stent type, expected benefits, and possible risks. Fasting for several hours before the procedure is required. Medications such as antiplatelet drugs may be started before angioplasty as part of standard care.
Angioplasty is performed in the cardiac catheterization laboratory, often immediately after angiography. A balloon-tipped catheter is guided to the blocked artery. The balloon is inflated to open the blockage, and a stent is placed to keep the artery open.
The patient remains awake with local anesthesia and mild sedation. The procedure typically lasts 30–90 minutes, depending on the number of blockages treated. Continuous monitoring ensures patient safety throughout.
After angioplasty, patients are closely monitored in the hospital, usually for one to two days. The insertion site is checked regularly, and heart function is observed.
Patients are prescribed medications, including antiplatelet drugs, to prevent clot formation as part of the post-angioplasty recovery strategy. Lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, exercise, and smoking cessation are strongly advised. Most patients can return to routine activities within one to two weeks, based on medical guidance.
Angiography and angioplasty serve different purposes in heart care. Angiography is a diagnostic test that helps doctors visualize blood vessels and identify blockages. It is used in chest pain diagnoses, allowing the doctors to find out the underlying cause. Angioplasty, on the other hand, is a treatment procedure used to open narrowed or blocked arteries. Angiography helps determine whether angioplasty is needed and guides treatment planning for coronary artery disease.
Angioplasty is not considered major surgery because it does not involve opening the chest or stopping the heart. It is a minimally invasive heart treatment performed through a small puncture in the wrist or groin. Most patients experience less pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery compared to open-heart surgical procedures.
Recovery after angioplasty varies depending on the patient’s overall health and procedure complexity. Many patients can resume light activities within a few days. Full recovery typically occurs within one to two weeks. Doctors usually recommend medications, lifestyle changes, and follow-up visits to support healing and long-term heart health.
Angioplasty is highly effective in relieving symptoms such as chest pain and improving blood flow in selected patients. Experienced specialists perform angioplasty with high immediate success rates. Long-term success depends on factors such as medication adherence, lifestyle modifications, and control of risk factors like diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Medical Disclaimer: This information is intended to educate patients and caregivers. It does not replace professional medical advice. All treatment decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified cardiologist.
(Prof.) Dr. Narendra Hiregoudar
Consultant Interventional Cardiology
Interventional Cardiology,
HCG Suchirayu Hospital, Hubli,
General Surgery, Laparoscopic Surgery
General Surgery,Laparoscopic Surgery,
HCG Suchirayu Hospital, Hubli,
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HCG Hospitals, Ahmedabad,HCG Hospitals, Bhavnagar,
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HCG Hospitals, Rajkot,
Dr. Keyur Pravinchandra Rathod
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HCG Hospitals, Bhavnagar,
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HCG Suchirayu Hospital, Hubli,
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HCG Hospitals, Ahmedabad,
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HCG Suchirayu Hospital, Hubli,
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HCG Suchirayu Hospital, Hubli,
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HCG Suchirayu Hospital, Hubli,
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HCG Hospitals, Ahmedabad,
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HCG Suchirayu Hospital, Hubli,
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