Using this guide What's covered
Here you’ll find the answers to many of your questions about coronary angiography, angioplasty and stents. Learn how the procedures work, what they may cost, what your recovery may be like, and more.
To see how the procedures are done, view our animations below. For personal insights, see our patient experience videos in which HCF members talk frankly about their preparation, surgery and recovery.
Cost indicator
Discover the typical out-of-pocket costs HCF members can expect to pay for coronary angioplasty and stents, and learn how your choice of doctor and hospital affect those costs.
See costs
The basics
Overview
A coronary angiogram is a type of x-ray that visualises the arteries that feed the heart. It may be performed with angioplasty, a procedure that opens up a narrowed coronary artery. Over 128,000 cardiac angiograms are performed in Australia every year.
A stent is a tiny mesh tube that can be placed inside the artery to keep it open. Over 47,000 procedures involving stents are performed in Australia every year.
Signs you may need these procedures
- you have chest pain that is caused by narrowed or blocked coronary arteries
- you’ve had abnormal results from a stress test
- you have heart disease, also known as coronary artery disease
- you have a blockage in a coronary artery.
The details
Considering surgery
What are coronary angiograms and stents?
How angiograms, angioplasty and stents work.
Learn more
Alternatives to these procedures
Other treatments you can talk to your doctor about.
Learn more
Results vs risks
The benefits and potential complications of angioplasty and stents.
Learn more
Preparation
Choosing a specialist
How to find a cardiologist who specialises in your procedure.
Learn more
Questions for your cardiologist
What you should be asking before going ahead with the procedure.
Learn more
Preparing for your procedure
Pre-operative tests and imaging.
Learn more
Your procedure
Going to hospital
What to expect on the day of your procedure.
Learn more
Your procedure
What happens in the operating theatre.
Learn more
Recovery and aftercare
After your procedure
Before you leave the hospital.
Learn more
Back at home
Rehab, aftercare and lifestyle modifications.
Learn more
Patient experiences
HCF members who’ve had these procedures talk about their preparation, hospital stay and recovery.
View videos
Give us feedback
Did you find this guide helpful? Let us know what you liked or what we can do to improve it. We'd love to hear from you.
To provide feedback, email us at wellbeing@hcf.com.au.
Related articles
HOSPITAL SAFETY & QUALITY SEARCH
Compare hospital safety and quality data before deciding where you're treated.
Find a doctor
Search for specialists who participate in our Medicover no-gap or known-gap scheme.
Find a health professional
Search for providers who participate in our More for You program. Find physios, chiros, podiatrists and more.
Important information
Information is provided by HCF in good faith for the convenience of members. It is not an endorsement or recommendation of any form of treatment nor is it a substitute for medical advice, and you should rely on the advice of your treating doctors in relation to all matters concerning your health. Every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, however HCF takes no responsibility for any injury, loss, damage or other consequences of the use of this information.