Stent for Heart Blockage

Introduction

A stent is a small metal or polymer tube placed in a narrowed or blocked artery to keep it open and ensure proper blood flow to the heart. This procedure, known as coronary stenting, is a part of a broader intervention called percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), or in simple terms, angioplasty.

Why is a Stent Needed?

Coronary arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart. If they become narrowed due to atherosclerosis (plaque buildup inside the arteries), it can lead to: - Chest pain (angina) - Shortness of breath - Heart attack (myocardial infarction)

A stent helps restore normal blood flow and reduces the risk of heart attacks.

Types of Stents

There are two main types of stents used in cardiology: 1. Bare-Metal Stents (BMS) – Simple metallic stents without medication. They provide structural support but have a higher chance of re-narrowing (restenosis). 2. Drug-Eluting Stents (DES) – Coated with medication that prevents excessive tissue growth, reducing the risk of restenosis.

The Stenting Procedure

Step 1: Preparation

• The procedure is done under local anesthesia.
• A small incision is made in either the wrist or the groin.
• A catheter (thin tube) with a balloon at its tip is inserted.

Step 2: Stent Placement

• The catheter is advanced to the blockage site.
• The balloon inflates, opening the artery.
• The stent is placed and remains permanently to keep the artery open.

Step 3: Recovery

• Hospital stay is usually 1-2 days.
• Medications like anti-platelets (e.g., aspirin and clopidogrel) are prescribed to prevent clot formation inside the stent.

Risks and Complications

Though highly effective, stenting carries some risks: - Bleeding or infection at the insertion site - Blood clots within the stent - Restenosis (in case of bare-metal stents) - Allergic reactions (to contrast dye used in the procedure)

Lifestyle Changes After Stent Placement

A stent is not a cure but rather a treatment. To ensure long-term health, a heart-healthy lifestyle is essential: - Healthy diet – Low in saturated fats & high in fiber - Regular exercise – At least 30 minutes daily - No smoking – Smoking increases restenosis risk - Control risk factors – Manage diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol

Conclusion

Stenting is a life-saving procedure that helps restore blood flow to the heart, reducing the risk of complications like heart attack. However, ongoing medical therapy and lifestyle changes are essential to achieve long-term success.

References

• Always follow your cardiologist’s instructions and refer to international guidelines for treatment.

Source recommendations

1. American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Guidelines for Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI)

1. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001038
2. https://www.acc.org/Latest-in-Cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2021/12/08/21/19/2021-Guideline-for-Revascularization-gl-revasc
3. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001168
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34882436/
5. https://newsroom.heart.org/news/american-college-of-cardiology-american-heart-association-issue-coronary-artery-revascularization-guideline

2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Myocardial Revascularization

1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/ESC-EACTS-Guidelines-in-Myocardial-Revascularisation-Guidelines-for
2. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/40/2/87/5079120
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30165437/
4. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/35/37/2541/581070
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25173339/