Coronary Artery Disease

11 Pages 2845 Words

If the plaque is large enough, the entire channel can become obstructed to blood flow. The heart muscle cells normally fed by this vessel are no longer able to receive vital nourishment from the blood stream. Under situations where the demand for blood supply is increased, such as during physical exercise and/emotional stress; the blood arteries may not be able to deliver enough blood to meet the nutrient demand and supply. When this occurs, most patients will notice chest pain or pressure with further exercise. This pain is called angina pectoris. If the obstructed artery closes suddenly, then permanent damage to the muscle cells in that region of the heart can occur. This process is known as a heart attack, or myocardial infarction. After evaluation of the extent of coronary heart disease, some patients will need intervention to prevent further attacks. Modern tools at our disposal, there is not always a need to perform surgery. However, for many patients surgical reconstruction still provides the best long term results.
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