Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), commonly known as coronary angioplasty or simply angioplasty, is one therapeutic procedure used to treat the stenotic (narrowed) coronary arteries of the heart found in coronary heart disease. These stenotic segments are due to the build up of cholesterol-laden plaques that form due to atherosclerosis. PCI is usually performed by an interventional cardiologist. Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), which bypasses stenotic arteries by grafting vessels from elsewhere in the body, is an alternative treatment. Most studies have found that CABG is better than PCI for reducing death and myocardial infarction. However, PCI does improve quality of life. Related Links: Himanshu Agarwal, MD www.alegent.com Alegent Health Heart & Vascular Specialists www.alegent.com Cardiology Blog www.alegent.com Alegent Health Podcast #27 Heart Palpitations www.alegent.com Alegent Health Clinic www.alegent.com
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