Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI)

Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), commonly known as a stent procedure, is a minimally invasive treatment for coronary artery disease.

Dr Ryan Markham has extensive experience in PCI. Dr Ryan Markham has received training both locally in Brisbane and internationally at the prestigious Stanford University, renowned as a global leader in education and research.

What is coronary artery disease (CAD)?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a common heart condition that affects your coronary arteries, which supply blood to your heart.

CAD develops slowly over many years as fats, cholesterol, calcium and other substances build up inside your artery walls to form plaque. This plaque narrows your arteries, reducing blood flow to your heart.

What is coronary artery disease (CAD)?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a common heart condition that affects your coronary arteries, which supply blood to your heart.

CAD develops slowly over many years as fats, cholesterol and other substances build up inside your artery walls to form plaque. This plaque narrows your arteries, reducing blood flow to your heart.

Certain risk factors make CAD more likely.

They include –

  1. Age
  2. Gender
  3. Family history of heart disease
  4. Medical conditions like type 2 diabetes or chronic kidney disease
  5. Lifestyle factors such as being overweight, smoking, drinking too much alcohol, an unhealthy diet, stress and not getting enough exercise.

If you’re persistently tired, short of breath or just not feeling right, please see your GP in the first instance. They may conduct some initial tests and then refer you to an interventional cardiologist for further investigation and treatment, which may include a percutaneous coronary intervention.

CAD can cause symptoms such as:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Chest pain (angina) – this may feel like squeezing, pressure, tightness or heaviness.


If your arteries become completely blocked, you may experience a heart attack. If you have persistent or concerning symptoms this may be a medical emergency and you
should call 000 immediately.

Certain risk factors make CAD more likely.

They include –

  1. Age
  2. Gender
  3. Family history of heart disease
  4. Medical conditions like type 2 diabetes or chronic kidney disease
  5. Lifestyle factors such as being overweight, smoking, drinking too much alcohol, an unhealthy diet, stress and not getting enough exercise.

If you’re persistently tired, short of breath or just not feeling right, please see your GP in the first instance. They may conduct some initial tests and then refer you to an interventional cardiologist for further investigation and treatment, which may include a percutaneous coronary intervention.

CAD can cause symptoms such as:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Chest pain (angina) – this may feel like squeezing, pressure, tightness or heaviness.



If your arteries become completely blocked, you may experience a heart attack. This is a medical emergency and you should call 000 immediately.

What is a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)?

A PCI is a medical procedure to clear out and widen your coronary artery to improve blood flow to your heart.

It involves using a small inflatable balloon to expand your artery and then placing a stent (a tube made of metal mesh) to hold it open.

A PCI may be an alternative to open-heart surgery and is performed in a cardiac catheterisation lab rather than an operating room. This is typically done under light sedation and patients can often go home a day or two after the procedure.

What is a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)?

A PCI is a medical procedure to clear out and widen your coronary artery to improve blood flow to your heart.

It involves using a small inflatable balloon to expand your artery and then placing a stent (a tube made of metal mesh) to hold it open.

A PCI may be an alternative to open-heart surgery and is performed in a cardiac catheterisation lab rather than an operating room.

Why is PCI done?

PCI is performed to address clogged arteries that restrict blood flow to the heart, helping to:

  • Relieve symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath.
  • Improve blood flow to the heart, reducing the risk of a heart attack.
  • Enhance overall heart function and quality of life, particularly in individuals with CAD.

What’s involved in a PCI?

Before the procedure:

  • You will typically undergo diagnostic tests such as angiography to determine the location and severity of arterial blockages.
  • You may need to fast for several hours before the procedure, and your doctor will discuss any medications you should adjust or stop temporarily.

During the procedure:

  • PCI is performed under local anesthesia with mild sedation to keep you comfortable.
  • A small catheter is inserted into an artery, often in the wrist or groin, and guided to your heart.
  • A balloon is inflated to widen the artery and a stent is placed to keep the artery open.

After the procedure:

  • Most patients can expect to stay in the hospital for 1–2 days for monitoring.
  • Mild bruising or soreness at the catheter site is common.
  • Your cardiologist will provide instructions on medications, physical activity and follow-up appointments.

What can you expect after PCI?

Symptom relief

Many patients notice immediate improvement in symptoms like energy level, chest pain or shortness of breath following PCI, though outcomes depend on individual health conditions.

Long-term care

Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising and taking prescribed medications can help to keep your heart healthy and reduce the risk of further blockages.

Recovery

Most individuals can return to regular activities within a week, but heavy lifting and strenuous activities may be restricted for longer.

Follow-up

Regular check-ups with your cardiologist will ensure your stent is functioning properly and your overall heart health is monitored.

At Cardiac Care QLD, we combine advanced technology with compassionate care to support the best outcomes for our patients.

Why choose Cardiac Care QLD?

Led by Dr Ryan Markham, MBBS, FRACP, a highly experienced interventional cardiologist, Cardiac Care QLD provides comprehensive cardiac management tailored to your unique needs.

Our difference:

  • Comprehensive cardiac care: From in-room diagnostics, such as echocardiograms and stress tests, to advanced procedures like angiography, PCI, and TAVI, your care is seamlessly coordinated.
  • Convenient locations: Testing and consultations are available at our Brisbane locations, with interventional procedures performed at St Andrew’s Hospital in Spring Hill.
  • Personalised expertise: Dr Markham’s patient-focused approach helps to put you at ease, ensuring you’re able to ask your questions, understand your condition and feel well-informed about any treatment you may need.

Disclaimer:

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risk. Individual outcomes from PCI may vary. Consult your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment for your condition. All information is general and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Cardiac Care Queensland can consult with you to confirm if treatment is right for you.