Balloon angioplasty is a medical procedure used to open narrowed or blocked blood vessels, often due to atherosclerosis. During the procedure, a thin tube called a catheter is inserted into the affected blood vessel. A small balloon at the tip of the catheter is then inflated, which helps to widen the vessel and improve blood flow. This technique is commonly performed in the coronary arteries of the heart but can also be used in other areas of the body. After the balloon is deflated and removed, a stent may be placed to keep the vessel open and prevent future blockages.