Which of the following procedures is performed to treat blocked coronary arteries?

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a procedure specifically designed to treat narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. This minimally invasive technique involves the insertion of a catheter through the skin, usually into an artery in the groin or wrist, and advancing it to the coronary arteries. Once in place, a balloon can be inflated to expand the blocked artery, and often a stent may be deployed to keep the artery open.

The significance of PCI lies in its ability to quickly restore blood flow to the heart muscle, alleviate symptoms of angina, and reduce the risk of heart attacks. It can be performed under local anesthesia, generally allowing for a quicker recovery compared to more invasive surgical options. The ability to treat coronary artery blockages through this method enhances the overall care of patients with coronary artery disease.

Other procedures mentioned in the question, like coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and transmyocardial revascularization (TMR), are alternative surgical strategies used to address severe coronary artery disease, but they involve more invasive approaches. Coronary artery stenting is often part of PCI, as it usually accompanies the balloon angioplasty to ensure that the artery remains open post-procedure. While all options listed relate to the treatment of blocked coronary arteries, PCI