Coronary angioplasty is a procedure during which a coronary artery narrowing is widened with a balloon, and a stent is implanted to keep the artery open. It is a very effective treatment both for angina and for heart attacks.

The procedure will be carried out at the Sussex Cardiac Centre. Dr Hildick-Smith will approach your heart from the radial artery (at the wrist). This has advantages over the femoral artery (in the groin) in terms of comfort, bleeding risks, and immediate recovery.

Usually you will be able to go home the same day, and you will be asked to take clopidogrel 75mg daily (we will give you some) to take for 6 months.

You will then be assessed in outpatients in a few weeks time to see how you are getting on.