Coronary Artery Disease

Previously, the only treatment options for complex coronary artery disease was coronary artery bypass graft (CABG). Now, thanks to modern imaging and advanced procedures, cardiologist can use a CTO-PCI procedure to clear blocked arteries without the need for open heart surgery. At the UW Medicine Heart Institute, our interventional cardiologists are nationally renowned for their work with minimally invasive procedures like CTO-PCIs. Patients come to us from care from across the nation. As one of the most trusted cardiovascular groups in the Pacific Northwest for interventional cardiology and heart surgery, you can have peace of mind knowing your procedure is being handled by the best.

Even after your procedure, we’re here to help you get back on your feet. With support from your dedicated care team, you’ll be on the road to recovery in no time. We’ll help you understand what to expect after surgery and what you can do to help with recovery. We’ll also help you prevent any future blockages by addressing your risk factors. 
 

Chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary intervention (CTO-PCI) is a type of coronary artery angioplasty. Doctors use this procedure to open blocked coronary arteries caused by coronary artery disease and keep it open by placing a stent in the vessel. It restores blood flow to the heart muscle. Coronary artery angioplasty can be done in an emergency, such as for a heart attack. Or it can be done as an elective procedure. CTO-PCI is a special kind of coronary procedure where a blood vessel that has been closed for several months to years is opened. This type of coronary procedure requires special techniques.

Who benefits from a CTO-PCI procedure? 

A CTO-PCI procedure helps people with complete blockages of a coronary artery. They have been present for more than several months and are known as chronic total occlusions (CTOs). CTOs are caused by coronary artery disease, a condition where the innermost layer of the coronary arteries becomes inflamed and narrowed. Coronary artery disease is caused by a buildup of fatty deposits called plaque. These deposits may start in childhood and continue to thicken and enlarge throughout your life. This thickening is called atherosclerosis. It can cut or block blood flow to the heart. 

The procedure may offer a less invasive alternative to open heart surgery, or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), previously one of the few CTO procedures available for treatment.

Like with any procedure, CTO-PCI, or angioplasty, has some risks. Possible risks include:

• Bleeding at the site where the catheter is put into the body (usually the wrist or groin)
• Blood clot or damage to the artery from the catheter
• Bleeding into the sack surrounding the heart
• Blood clot in the treated artery
• Infection at the catheter insertion site
• Abnormal heart rhythms
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Bursting (rupture) of the coronary artery or complete closing of the coronary artery, which may require open-heart surgery
• Allergic reaction to the contrast dye used
• Kidney damage from the contrast dye

Why choose UW Medicine for complex coronary artery disease treatments?

Chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary intervention (CTO-PCI) is a complex procedure that demands the highest level of precision and expertise. At UW Medicine Heart Institute, our team of highly skilled cardiologists and interventional specialists utilizes the most advanced diagnostic and interventional technologies for CTO-PCI. We understand the intricacies of this procedure and are committed to providing personalized care, ensuring you receive the best possible outcome. Our dedicated teams support you throughout the treatment journey, helping you understand the process and manage your heart health for the future. With a reputation as one of the top heart care providers in the Pacific Northwest, you can be confident in the care you receive at UW Medicine.