The LAD artery carries fresh blood into the heart so that the heart gets the oxygen it needs to pump properly. If it’s blocked, the heart can stop very fast — which is why this type of heart attack is called a “widowmaker.”
Significant blockages of the LAD artery can be dangerous simply because the LAD supplies such a large territory. If the LAD disease is determined to be significant then a stent is often used to relieve the blockage. Sometimes bypass surgery is advised, and usually a vessel called the LIMA (left internal mammary artery) is used as the bypass vessel and is associated with very good long-term results. Sometimes
- feeling sick
- Throwing up
- Having difficulty Breathing
- Feeling Dizzy
- Lightheaded
- Feeling Chest Pain or Discomfort
- Feeling like your heart is skipping beats
Signs and Symptoms of LAD may include :
- Atherectomy
- Bypass
- Valve replacement
Some Surgery Options include :
Treatments :
You may survive a widow maker if the emergency room doctors can treat you quickly. The ER team races against time to unblock your left main or LAD artery within 90 minutes of your heart attack. Restoring the blood flow can prevent scars on your heart that can do permanent damage.
If the ER team unblocks your left main or LAD artery quickly enough, you could have little or no damage to your heart.