Is a non-invasive procedure used to enlarge the artery of a partly closed blood vessel (as one with atherosclerotic plaque buildup on the walls). This is meant to improve blood flow to the lower extremeities, such as the legs and feet.
Before the Procedure:
Do NOT have anything to eat or drink after midnight the night before your procedure.
If you are on any of the following diabetic medication listed below, please hold medications 2 days before and the morning of the procedure. (3 days total)
- Advandamet
- Metaglip
- Metformin
- Riomet
- Glucophage
- Glucovance
- Fortamet
If you are on COUMADIN or WARFARIN, please hold mediation for 5 days before the procedure.
If you are on ELIQUIS/XARELTO/PRADAXA please hold medication for 2 days before the procedure.
Take approved daily medications with small sips of water on the morning of the procedure, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
NO diabetic medication of any kind the morning of the procedure. We encourage all patientst to bring their daily medications with them to the procedure.
Procedure times can be anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours. Typical peripheral interventional procedures are anywhere from 1 to 4 hours. You will be on bed rest for a minimum of 2 hours, after the procedure.
Please have someone available to drive you home after the procedure as you will not be able to drive. Public transportation is not permitted. If you are having difficulty finding transportation to your procedure, please call our office at (407) 730-8970.
Visitors are allowed, but space may be limited depending on the facility.
Blood work should be done at least 10 days prior to the procedure and should include:
- CBC with differential
- BMP
- PT/INR
You will need to have someone stay with you for the first 24 hours after your procedure.
If you have any questions please contact our office.
After the Procedure:
Following the procedure, you will be taken to a recovery area where you will be closely attended for a minimum of 2 hours.
Your cardiac status will be watched on an electrocardiogram (EKG) monitor.
Your puncture site (groin or arm) will be watched for signs of bleeding, and your pulse will be checked frequently.
You will be encouraged to drink fluids to flush the contrast dye from your system.
When the sheath is removed, manual pressure will be applied for at least 30 minutes (or until all signs of bleeding stop).
Going Home:
You will not be able to drive for 24 hours following the procedure. Please be sure to arrange in advance for someone to drive you home from the medical facility, as well as have someone stay with you for the first 24 hours following the procedure.
You should take it easy for about a week after the procedure.
Avoid all heavy lifting (nothing heavier than a gallon of milk), straining or vigorous leg activities for one week. If bleeding occurs, apply continuous pressure and call 911.
You may remove the dressing 24 hours after your procedure. Please reapply new band aids for an additional 24 hours, then leave the puncture site open to air. Remember to keep the site clean and dry.
Baths, swimming pools, hot tubs, and anything else that involves a "soak" is not permitted for one week after the procedure.
Some discomfort, discoloration and even a small knot (the size of a pea) is normal at the puncture site. However, redness, drainage and/or fever, maybe signs of an infection, and should be reported to your physician immediately.
IMPORTANT: Be sure to keep all follow up appointments with your doctor and call to report any changes in your condition.