Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), angioplasty for short, is an invasive procedure performed to open narrowed segments or clear blockages in coronary arteries. Its objectives are the restoration of blood flow to blood-deprived heart tissue, the reduction in need for medication, and the elimination or reduction of angina episodes.

The catheter-based procedure typically involves the use of an angioplasty balloon. Guided into the narrowed or blocked segment of artery, the balloon is inflated to open the narrowed artery and flatten the plaque against the artery wall. Once recanalization is achieved, a stent is frequently implanted to keep the artery open and prevent restenosis (regrowth of plaque).