The procedure is commonly performed during coronary angioplasty, a procedure where a balloon is inflated to relieve a narrowing or blockage in a coronary artery. Stents are used in most cases as the scaffold helps keep the artery open and blood supply restored and is one of the most effective treatments for coronary artery disease. Nearly all stents now have a special drug coating to reduce re-narrowing in the future.
What Is a Stent?
A stent is a small metal mesh tube that is inserted into a narrowed artery to help keep it open. Once positioned, the stent remains permanently in place, supporting the artery and maintaining blood flow.
Before stent and after stent
What Happens During the Procedure?
A catheter is guided through an artery in the wrist or groin to the affected coronary artery.
A small balloon is inflated at the site of the narrowing to widen the artery, and the stent is deployed to hold the vessel open. Once the stent is in place, the balloon is removed and blood flow is restored.
Benefits of Coronary Stenting
- Improves blood flow to the heart muscle
- Relieves angina symptoms
- Improves exercise tolerance
- Avoids the need for more invasive surgery in many patients
Recovery and Follow-Up
Most patients recover quickly and can return to normal activities within a few days. Your cardiologist will provide guidance regarding medications, lifestyle changes and ongoing cardiac care to support long-term heart health.
You will need to take a second blood thinner, in addition to aspirin, for at least 6 months and sometimes 12 after insertion of your stent, whilst the body tissue heals around it. This will increase your risk of bleeding and bruising a little bit, so if you know you need a planned operation (e.g. knee replacement) you should tell your doctor before your stent procedure top allow planning. After insertion of a stent you should not drive for 7 days after the procedure so will need someone to drive you home once you are ready for discharge.
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