Coronary angioplasty, also known as percutaneous coronary intervention, is a cornerstone of modern cardiovascular therapy, restoring blood flow in obstructed coronary arteries using balloons and stents. The Angioplasty session provides a comprehensive overview of procedural techniques, patient selection, and outcome optimization from both acute and elective perspectives. Participants will explore how angioplasty fits into the management of stable coronary disease, non–ST-elevation acute coronary syndromes, and ST-elevation myocardial infarction, with a focus on evidence-based decision-making and individualized care.

As clinicians and catheterization lab teams look for an cardiology conference to refine their skills, they face rapidly evolving device options, imaging tools, and adjunctive pharmacology. This session reviews contemporary practice in balloon predilation, direct stenting, lesion preparation, and post-dilation strategies. Attendees will discuss how to approach calcified lesions, bifurcations, long segments, and high thrombus burden, incorporating intravascular imaging and physiological assessment where appropriate. Practical case discussions will highlight common challenges such as no-reflow, dissection, and stent under-expansion, emphasizing prompt recognition and corrective strategies.

Another key theme is the relationship between percutaneous coronary intervention and broader coronary care pathways. Participants will learn when revascularization is likely to improve prognosis versus when optimal medical therapy alone may suffice, based on ischemia burden, anatomical complexity, and patient preferences. The session will address radial versus femoral access, contrast and radiation minimization, and management of high-risk groups such as patients with diabetes, chronic kidney disease, or reduced left ventricular function. Guidance on antiplatelet therapy selection, duration of dual antiplatelet therapy, and strategies for balancing bleeding and ischemic risk is also included.

Finally, the session explores quality metrics, post-angioplasty follow-up, and integration with cardiac rehabilitation and secondary prevention. Attendees will see how structured registries, multidisciplinary review, and continuous education contribute to better outcomes. By the end, participants will be able to apply current evidence and best practices to perform or support angioplasty safely and effectively, while ensuring that each procedure is embedded in a comprehensive cardiovascular care plan.