What is CAD Stenosis?
CAD stenosis refers to the narrowing of the coronary arteries, which are the essential blood vessels responsible for delivering blood and oxygen directly to the heart muscle.
The term coronary artery disease (CAD) is often used interchangeably with coronary artery stenosis because the primary characteristic of the disease is this narrowing. These arteries are vital for keeping the heart muscle supplied with the necessary nutrients and oxygen it needs to function correctly.
The Cause: Plaque Buildup (Atherosclerosis)
Based on the reference, the fundamental reason behind this narrowing is the accumulation of plaque within the walls of the coronary arteries. This process is known medically as atherosclerosis.
Here are the key points regarding the cause:
- Plaque is a substance made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other materials found in the blood.
- This plaque builds up over time inside the wall of the coronary artery, not just in the bloodstream.
- As the plaque deposit grows, it reduces the space within the artery through which blood can flow, leading to the narrowing or stenosis.
This plaque buildup is the core mechanism that leads to the restriction of blood flow in the coronary arteries, defining what CAD stenosis is.
