Webchat Transcripts - Questions and Answers with a Physician

Coronary artery disease is the narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, usually caused by atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis (sometimes called "hardening" or "clogging" of the arteries) is the buildup of cholesterol and fatty deposits (called plaques) on the inner walls of the arteries. These plaques can restrict blood flow to the heart muscle by physically clogging the artery or by causing abnormal artery tone and function.

Interventional procedures consist of balloons, blades, and rotational cutting devices that have the ability to dilate and/or cut away fatty matter, opening up narrowed arteries. Over the years, scientific advancements have decreased the complication rate, and improved the safety and outcomes of these procedures.

Read transcripts of prior webchats on this topic:

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Reviewed: 08/18