A1 Understand health issues page 19

Question 1

What is thrombolysis, and when is it used in cardiovascular disease treatment?

Answer 1

Thrombolysis is the use of medication, usually delivered through a vein, to break up a blood clot and restore blood flow. It is used in strokes, heart attacks, and peripheral vascular disease.

Question 2

What is angioplasty, and how is it performed?

Answer 2

Angioplasty involves inserting a wire into the affected blood vessel under X-ray guidance, identifying the location of a clot with dye, and using tools or a stent to open the blockage.

Question 3

What is a thrombus?

Answer 3

A thrombus is a blood clot.

Question 4

What is a stent, and how is it used in treating cardiovascular diseases?

Answer 4

A stent is a mesh tube used to open up a blocked blood vessel to restore blood flow.

Question 5

What happens if thrombolysis or angioplasty is not effective in treating a diseased blood vessel?

Answer 5

If thrombolysis or angioplasty is not effective, bypass surgery may be required to reroute blood flow around the blockage.

Question 6

What is bypass surgery, and how is it performed in cardiovascular treatment?

Answer 6

Bypass surgery involves taking a healthy blood vessel, often from the leg, and using it to bypass the blocked area in the affected blood vessel. Artificial material can also be used if no suitable vessel is available.