More than 18 million people in the United States have coronary artery disease (CAD), and some need an angioplasty to avoid complications. At Longwood Cardiac Recovery & Rehabilitation Center in Longwood, Florida, Doctor of Physical Therapy Sergio Sepúlveda Sunez, DPT, offers cardiac rehabilitation for patients who have undergone a coronary angioplasty. Schedule an appointment by phone or request one online today. Virtual visits are also available.

What is coronary angioplasty?

Coronary angioplasty is a procedure that opens clogged heart blood vessels. During the procedure, your surgeon places a tiny balloon-like device and tube into the affected vessel to widen it, improving blood flow and reducing your risk of a heart attack. 

After widening a narrow vessel, your surgeon often inserts a stent (small wire mesh tube) to keep the artery open long term. This procedure can reduce your risk of life-threatening complications or treat you after having a heart attack. 

After the procedure, cardiac rehab at Longwood Cardiac Recovery & Rehabilitation Center can maximize your recovery.

Who may need a coronary angioplasty?

You might undergo a coronary angioplasty if you experience:

• Buildup of cholesterol, fats, and other substances in an artery wall
• Blocked or narrowed blood vessel
• Coronary artery disease (CAD)
• Reduced blood flow to the heart
• A condition that hasn’t improved with medicine or lifestyle changes
• Angina (chest pain)
• Heart attack

Another option is coronary artery bypass surgery, which is open-heart surgery that bypasses a clogged artery with a vessel from another part of your body.

How can cardiac rehabilitation help after a coronary angioplasty?

A coronary angioplasty can greatly increase blood flow to your heart, which may help you feel better and regain strength. 

Heart surgeons often recommend cardiac rehabilitation for patients after their coronary angioplasties to maximize recovery.

Dr. Sepúlveda Sunez offers convenient virtual assessments for initial consultation and follow-up appointments.

Your custom cardiac rehabilitation program at Longwood Cardiac Recovery & Rehabilitation Center may consist of:

• Pritikin intensive cardiac rehab (ICR)
• Vestibular screening for balance disorders and dizziness
• Heart-healthy nutrition education
• Stress management
• Long-term behavior changes
• Emotional support
• Smoking cessation, if applicable
• Routine patient monitoring
• Transportation assistance
• Doctor referral program

ICR is a highly effective cardiac rehabilitation program that combines supervised, disease-specific exercises with lifestyle education. It’s also helpful to get enough sleep and manage your cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar.

Dr. Sepúlveda Sunez can help you regain strength, mobility, and endurance to maximize heart health, blood vessel health, and your overall quality of life. 

Longwood Cardiac Recovery & Rehabilitation Center uses CardiaLine, a cardiopulmonary monitoring system with remote patient monitoring capabilities.

Dr. Sepúlveda Sunez uses a holistic, patient-centered, integrative approach. He follows up to optimize your cardiac health and well-being.

If you’ve undergone a coronary angioplasty, take advantage of cardiac rehab at Longwood Cardiac Recovery & Rehabilitation Center. Book an in-person or virtual appointment by phone or request one online today.