Why does my doctor think I don’t need an angioplasty and stent?

DEAR DOCTOR K: A test showed a 50 percent blockage in one of my coronary arteries. That sounds pretty bad to me. But the cardiologist said I didn't need an angioplasty and stent. Why?
DEAR READER: Coronary arteries send needed blood to the heart muscle. That blood flow can be blocked by cholesterol-rich plaques of atherosclerosis. When the blockage seriously reduces blood flow, it increases your risk of a heart attack. An angioplasty and stents can be helpful for restoring blood flow, but the procedure is not risk-free.