Blockage of artery

[Lilitchka]

I am 80 years old in excellent health.  After not being able to get a blood pressure reading on either of my arms, my doctor put me through a series of tests and it was discovered I had a blockage in my artery, causing a weak left arm, tingling, and occasional chest pain.  I was prepared for an angiogram, (balloon and stent), but the Radiologist told me I was very high risk, so I did not have him do it.  Now I am considering a bypass.  What is your opinion?

[Lilitchka]

Thank you so much for your response. I know I gave very little info, but my problem is solved.  My blockage is not in the left arm but in the artery leading to it, from the heart.  The angiogram is now out since it was determined that I am not high risk and perhaps the Radiologist was a bit zealous.  I guess he feels it is important to overstate the risks, However, I am scheduled for a bypass next week and I am confident and my mind is at peace.  I have a very understanding Cardiovascular surgeon and we are in synch.  Thank you again.  If this thread is still here by the time I am home, I will say hello.

[Darcy Green Conaway, MD]

The opinion depends on why you are high risk and what type of angiogram you are talking about...it sounds like you have a blockage in your arm but a bypass is used for the heart and sometimes for the legs; so that to me means that you have some very serious health problems. Can you tell me what type of angiogram and why he/she told you you would be high risk?