Coronary Angioplasty in Thailand

What you need to know about Coronary Angioplasty in Thailand

Coronary Angioplasty is a non-surgical procedure to open up clogged coronary arteries and it is also known as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Coronary arteries provide blood to heart tissue. In this method, a balloon is temporarily inserted into the blocked artery and inflated to increase its diameter. Blocked coronary artery causes chest pain and shortness of breath, Angioplasty helps reduce both these problems. Also, it is performed during the treatment of a heart attack to open up the arteries rapidly. It prevents damage to your heart and Coronary arteries are end arteries. Once they are blocked, there is no anastomosis to provide an alternative and as a result, the cardiac muscles die. This poses a lot of risks to your health.

It is primarily a treatment for atherosclerosis, with this disease; fat plaques are deposited into the coronary arteries. Angioplasty is chosen when lifestyle changes and medicines do not work and if the plaque continues to deposit, several health problems are initiated.

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MyMediTravel offers 5 Medical Centers in Thailand, some of which offer Coronary Angioplasty procedures - see below for the complete list, along with estimated prices. The price of a Coronary Angioplasty can vary according to each individual’s case and will be determined based on a medical profile and medical history, an in-person assessment with the doctor will also be required. For a bespoke quote and to discuss further with a member of our patient support team, Click Here to submit your Free Quote.

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Not everyone can go for an angioplasty. If you have plaques in multiple arteries a coronary bypass surgery is chosen. Similarly, if you are suffering from other diseases such as diabetes, surgery is recommended. 

The Procedure

Before the procedure begins, a coronary angiogram is taken to find out which artery needs angioplasty. After this, you are given a local anesthetic agent in the area where the cut is made. Only a small cut is made on the skin of the area such as thigh, arm or wrist where the artery is present through which the catheter is to be passed to reach the coronary artery. No big incision is needed for the procedure. The femoral artery, present in your groin is usually preferred for this procedure. Arteries present in your wrist and arm are less commonly chosen. 

The area is cleaned with the antiseptic solution to avoid future problems. Electrode pads are placed on to your chest to monitor heart activity during the procedure. You are awake but sedated as the cardiologist proceeds. Different medicines and fluids are given through IV catheter. Blood-thinning medicines are given to avoid clot formation. After this, the catheter with wire is passed all the way from the point of insertion to the area of blockage and you will feel the catheter in your body and if you feel sharp pain, tell your doctor immediately. 

A dye is introduced into the artery through a catheter to get a clear picture through angiography. The site of the blockage becomes clear. When the catheter reaches the exact site, the balloon present at its end is inflated. This opens up the artery. Sometimes, the balloon is inflated and deflated again and again. It is done to increase the diameter of your artery. This procedure is repeated multiple times to open up all the blockage. You might experience chest pain during the procedure. After this, the deflated balloon is removed with the catheter and the small incision is stitched.

Length of Stay in Thailand

This procedure does not have a specified time period as it can take several hours depending upon the number of blocked arteries and some other factors such as your health. The length of stay in the hospital varies according to your condition. If the angioplasty is performed under non-emergency conditions, a 1 day stay in the hospital is required and your heart is continuously monitored in the hospital. You will have to remain in the Thailand for at least 14 days for regular check-ups. During these visits, your physical condition is kept under review and the stitches are removed and if there are no issues, you will be allowed to leave for home. 

Recovery Time

Recovery times depend upon the condition of the patient as it will take more time to recover if the angioplasty was performed under emergency conditions. If not, recovery will take less time. Only one week in needed to get back to your normal routine after angioplasty. You will feel tired after slight activities, but this will get better after some time.

Aftercare 

Consider the following aftercare points whilst you are taking care of yourself at home after being discharged from the hospital: 

• Drink plenty of water and fluids to flush out the contrast dye that was introduced into your body during the procedure. 
• Do not indulge in strenuous activities such as the gym, swimming, running, etc. For at least one week after the surgery as it will increase the workload to your heart.
• Avoid climbing up the stairs and do not lift heavy objects or your children.
• Take your blood-thinning medicines regularly as and when prescribed by your physician.
• Visit your doctor immediately if you experience severe chest pain and shortness of breath.
• Take care of the site where the incision was given and if you notice any redness or swelling, consult your doctor.
• Do exercise regularly as a healthy lifestyle helps you to recover faster.
• Do not smoke or drink.

Success Rate

Coronary angioplasty has a high success rate. However, it differs in accordance with the condition of the patient. According to a study, patients with angina but no history of a heart attack showed a 90% success rate while those who suffered from angina and a heart attack previously showed a 64% success rate. A Heart attack reduces the success rate of coronary angioplasty. 

Alternatives to Coronary Angioplasty

In the blockage of a coronary artery, a stent can be placed in the artery to increase its diameter. This keeps the artery open facilitating the blood flow. A catheter is used to insert the stent from femoral artery mostly as it is very effective in treating heart diseases. 

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Before and After Coronary Angioplasty 

Before going through coronary angioplasty, the blood supply to your heart muscles is decreased. You suffer from chest pain and shortness of breath. Besides this, atherosclerosis can lead to other heart diseases or even a heart attack. Angioplasty can resolve all of these problems. After you go through an angioplasty, blood flow through the narrowed artery considerably increases. Your chest pain is relieved and will not be short of breath after a little activity. 

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Find top clinics for Coronary Angioplasty in Thailand at the lowest price. Compare costs & reviews of 5 clinics, specialized in Coronary Angioplasty procedures in Thailand.

Coronary Angioplasty in and around Thailand

About Thailand

Thailand leads the way for Asian countries with over 60 state-of-the-art JCI accredited facilities and consistently voted one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. It's known for its tropical beaches, floating markets, stunning royal palaces, and Buddhist temples. In Bangkok, the capital, an ultramodern cityscape rises with brand new high-rise condominium developments next to quiet canal side communities. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the most popular tourist areas outside of Bangkok are Phuket, Koh Samui, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin and Pattaya, all with great yacht chartering opportunities.

Thailand welcomes hundreds of thousands of medical tourists each year, many of which travel for Coronary Angioplasty procedures. Medical Tourists travel from all across the globe, particularly from the local SE Asia region, Australia, US, Middle East and an increasing amount are traveling from China. An outstanding private healthcare system combined with a hot tropical climate and competitive prices means that Thailand is now the third most popular destination in the world for medical tourism. The most popular procedures tend to be cosmetic surgery (breast augmentations, gender reassignment surgery, and CoolSculpting to name a few), cardiac surgery, orthopedics, and urology.

Popular Parts of Thailand

With a population of just under 70 million people spread across an area of around 500k square km, Thailand’s most popular regions/cities include Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Koh Samui, and Hua Hin. The capital city Bangkok is one of the most visited cities in the world, whilst Thailand as a whole receives over 30 million tourists each year, the vast majority of these will enter Thailand through Bangkok. 

As Bangkok is the only urbanized region mentioned, all others are centered around island/beach life, with the exception of Chiang Mai, set in the northern Thailand jungle.

Weather and Climate in Thailand

Known for its truly tropical climate and scorching temperatures, Thailand, in general, is hot and humid all year round. The coastal locations do benefit from the cooling sea breeze, a luxury urban Bangkok is denied. Average temperatures range from 28°C (82°F) up to 35°C (95°F). However, during the Hot Season (March to June), temperatures can top 40°C (104°F).

The infamous Rainy Season tends to start in July and continue through to October; during this time expect heavy rainfall, often amounting to flooding in some areas. It will remain warm to hot but humidity levels will rise and the mosquitos will come out to play!

November to February is often referred to as the Cool Season when less rain is expected and the temperatures tend not to rise above 35°C (95°F).

From a tourist perspective; High Season lasts from November to March and Low Season April to October. But be aware of the Shoulder Seasons of April to June and September to October, when Thailand is less impacted by the Rainy Season and less busy with tourists – these can be the ideal times to visit.

In a nutshell, Thailand is a Shorts and T-shirt Country, you’re never really going to be cold, so pack light; shorts, t-shirts, vests, skirts, singlets, and light dresses. Maybe pack jeans and shoes if you’re planning on going to a swanky roof-top bar in Bangkok or to a temple where flip-flops are not acceptable.

Don’t forget mosquito spray as the little pests can get everywhere; big ones and little ones! Always protect against the sun; high factor sunscreen and UV-protective sunglasses. The usual medications found at home should be available in most pharmacies.

Getting around in Thailand

With the Suvarnabhumi International Airport being serviced by some of the world’s major airlines, tourists can fly into Thailand from almost anywhere in the world, sometimes with a connection along the way. All the popular regions have their own international airports, with the exception of Pattaya, which is just a 90-minute taxi ride from Bangkok. However, arrival destinations are slightly limited outside of Bangkok, but the likes of Emirates and Qatar Airways will fly into Phuket International Airport. The rest, mostly fly in from local countries on budget airlines, including Scoot, SilkAir, AirAsia and Lion Air to name a few.

For domestic flights, the airports are nicely linked in Thailand with flights from as little as $45 USD one way. There are several budget airlines servicing these routes, including Thai Lion Air, AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, and Thai Smile.

The train allows for even cheaper travel within Thailand and is far more comfortable than spending hours sitting on a bus. Bangkok has the BTS, or Skytrain, which allows for fast transfer from the airport into the city. Given the traffic in central Bangkok, the BTS offers a great alternative to being stuck in traffic jams.

Taxis are great, however, be sure to confirm the price before you begin your journey or better still, insist the ride goes on the meter – that is how you guarantee the cheapest and fairest price. But expect traffic in the city and any built-up areas.

Tourist Visas in Thailand

Whilst Thailand is most welcoming of tourists from all over the world, travelers should check with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand for confirmation. Those with a UK, US, German, Australian, Singaporean passport, for example, do not require a visa when entering and can stay for up to 30 days. Whereas Chinese and Indian passport holders are required to apply for a visa on arrival, which lasts up to 15 days – for more information, click here.

Additional Information

1. The Thai Baht (THB) is the local currency and $1 USD will get you 30-33 THB, or in other words, 1,000 THB is worth approximately $32 USD.
2. ATMs are readily available across Thailand and accept virtually all major bank cards (Visa, Mastercard). Credit card payment is accepted in most established restaurants and outlets, with the more local food vendors, for example, only accepting cash. Tipping is common as service is not included at restaurants, anything around 10% is fine.
3. Thai is the local language but due to the extremely well-established tourism industry in Thailand, English is spoken by most locals who work with tourists and often signs will have an English translation.
4. Buddhism (95%) is the primary religion throughout Thailand, with a large Muslim population (4%) mostly focused in the south. The Royal Family is deeply revered throughout the country and should never be disrespected, such behavior is severely punished. Pointing with your feet and touching another person’s head is considered extremely rude.
5. There are many public holidays in Thailand, which aren’t always on the same day each year, including Songkran (Thai New Year), which is celebrated in mid-April, Labor Day and Coronation Day in early May, Asanha Buja in July and Constitution Day in December.