Why IVUS-Guided Angioplasty is the Future of Heart Care in India
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Dr. Arun Mohanty
11 May, 2023
Understanding Complex Angioplasty (CHIP): When the Usual Isn’t Enough
When it comes to treating blocked arteries, angioplasty has been a proven, life-saving procedure for decades. But not every blockage is straightforward. Some patients present with conditions that make the standard procedure far more challenging—or even impossible. That’s where Complex High-Risk Indicated Procedures (CHIP), often referred to as Complex Angioplasty, come in.
What is Complex Angioplasty (CHIP)?
Complex angioplasty, also called CHIP, is a specialized form of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) performed on patients with highly complicated coronary artery disease. These are not routine cases; they often involve:
- Severely calcified blockages
- Chronic total occlusions (completely blocked arteries)
- Left main coronary artery disease
- Multi-vessel blockages
- Patients with weak heart function or other co-existing conditions
CHIP procedures require advanced techniques, specialized equipment, and highly experienced interventional cardiologists to ensure safety and success.
Why Standard Angioplasty Isn’t Enough
In typical angioplasty, a balloon and stent can restore blood flow relatively easily. But in CHIP cases, standard tools may not be effective because of:
- Heavily calcified arteries that resist balloon expansion
- Total occlusions where the artery has been blocked for months or years
- High-risk patient profiles like elderly individuals, diabetics, or those with kidney disease
Without advanced approaches, these patients may remain at risk of heart attacks, worsening heart failure, or limited treatment options.
Advanced Techniques in CHIP
To overcome these challenges, cardiologists may use:
- Rotational or orbital atherectomy – drills away hardened calcium in arteries
- Intravascular imaging (IVUS/OCT) – provides detailed visualization inside arteries
- Hemodynamic support devices – stabilize patients with weak heart function during the procedure
- Hybrid approaches – combining multiple interventional strategies for better results
Who Needs Complex Angioplasty?
Patients who may benefit from CHIP are often those who were once considered inoperable or only suitable for bypass surgery. This includes:
- Individuals with multiple blockages in critical arteries
- Patients previously turned down for bypass due to medical risks
- Those with chronic total occlusions impacting quality of life
- Patients with poor heart pumping function needing revascularization
Benefits of CHIP
While more technically demanding, CHIP offers patients:
- A chance at treatment when bypass surgery may be too risky
- Improved blood flow and heart function
- Relief from chest pain and breathlessness
- Reduced risk of future heart attacks
Risks and Considerations
Like any procedure, CHIP carries risks, including bleeding, vessel injury, or need for emergency surgery. However, in expert hands, the benefits often outweigh the risks, especially for patients with limited alternatives.
Complex angioplasty (CHIP) is a game-changer in modern cardiology. By addressing high-risk and challenging cases that once had limited solutions, it gives patients a new lease on life. If you or a loved one has been told that standard angioplasty isn’t possible, consulting with a cardiologist experienced in CHIP could open the door to life-saving treatment.
Complex angioplasty (CHIP) is a game-changer in modern cardiology. By addressing high-risk and challenging cases that once had limited solutions, it gives patients a new lease on life. If you or a loved one has been told that standard angioplasty isn’t possible, consulting with a cardiologist experienced in CHIP could open the door to life-saving treatment.
