Coronary angioplasty -- minimally invasive procedures that open clogged arteries -- helps many heart patients live longer, fuller lives.

Unfortunately, about 20 percent of patients who undergo angioplasty develop scar tissue that causes a renarrowing, or restenosis, of the artery. In the past, these patients had to undergo multiple angioplasty procedures or bypass surgery.

Now, physicians at Desert Springs Hospital Medical Center use advanced technology and tiny radioactive seeds to perform an exciting new procedure called coronary brachytherapy that helps prevent restenosis in many patients.

How It Works
Physicians performing the procedure rely on new technology that calculates the exact dose of radiation for each patient, the optimal position of the seeds and the appropriate exposure time.

During the procedure, physicians thread a catheter through the artery to the site of the restenosis, inflate a balloon to reopen the narrowed area, and deposit radioactive seeds that prevent scar tissue from reforming. The seeds are withdrawn when exposure is complete.

Patients take blood thinners for about nine months following the procedure.

"Coronary brachytherapy is a significant medical advance for many patients because it can reduce the need for additional procedures and the risk of complications," says Sanjay Malhotra, MD, an internal medicine and coronary intervention specialist at Desert Springs Hospital. "Patients can live a normal, active life instead of worrying about restenosis."

Special Considerations
Some patients express concern about the brief exposure to the radioactive seeds. Dr. Malhotra says there are no long-term data available on this relatively new procedure, but no cases of cancer have been linked to coronary brachytherapy.

To make an appointment with Dr. Malhotra, call Direct Doctors Plus at 388-4888.

The Valley Health System c/o Valley Hospital Medical Center 620 Shadow Lane Las Vegas, NV 89106