Coronary angioplasty and stents

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Coronary artery plaques

Illustration showing coronary artery plaques

Atherosclerosis (ath-ur-o-skluh-RO-sis) is hardening and narrowing of the arteries caused by the accumulation of fatty deposits (plaques) and other substances. A blood clot also may form at the site, completely blocking your artery and causing a heart attack.

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