Angioplasty

As a Noun

1. A medical procedure used to open narrowed or blocked blood vessels, especially arteries.
2. A minimally invasive treatment that restores blood flow by inflating a small balloon inside the artery.
3. Often performed with a stent to keep the artery open and prevent future blockages.

Word History

The word angioplasty comes from the Greek angio- (vessel) and plasty (molding or reshaping). It was first used in medical terminology in the 20th century as techniques to treat arterial blockages developed.

Examples

1. The doctor recommended angioplasty to treat his blocked coronary artery.
2. Angioplasty is a common procedure for patients with heart disease.
3. A stent was placed during the angioplasty to keep the artery open.

Synonyms

Balloon angioplasty, vascular procedure, artery-opening surgery

Related Words

Stent, catheterization, coronary intervention, bypass surgery

Antonyms

Artery blockage, untreated narrowing, vascular obstruction