Necessity of angioplasty

The story “Angioplasty: Change of heart; Mounting evidence shows the procedure is unnecessary for millions of patients” (11/16, A-1) suggests the procedure is overused.

My slender, youthful, 56-year-old husband complained of minor chest pain and fatigue after physical exertion, prompting a routine physical. After a thorough evaluation and discovery of inherited high cholesterol, he had a treadmill test, followed by a lengthy interview with a cardiologist and practitioner.

They informed us of possible procedures, costs, drug therapy, lifestyle changes, hospitalization, risks and follow-up. The next week, an inconclusive MRI resulted in a return the next day for angioplasty, which revealed 90 percent blockage in the main artery. A stent was placed, and he stayed overnight.

It seemed unlikely at first for my husband to need invasive and costly procedures. His symptoms weren’t severe. We are eternally grateful to three brilliant doctors for their knowledge and patience in evaluating the condition, making decisions and saving the life of a special guy. Thanks to them and the Overland Park Regional Medical Center team, he walked out the door.

Nancy Borchardt
Lenexa