A stent is a small mesh tube made of stainless steel that is placed into
blood vessels to prevent blood clots. Stenting is usually recommended
for patients with severe cases of atherosclerosis- a common condition
that describes plaque buildup in the arteries. When plaque builds in the
arteries, it makes it difficult for blood to flow and increases the likelihood
of a blot clot. Blood clots are very serious and could result in life
threatening conditions like a heart attack or stroke. The good news is
that they are preventable.
Angioplasty
Before a stent is placed in the artery, a minimally invasive procedure
called angioplasty must be performed. In this surgery, a catheter with
a small balloon on the tip is placed into the plaque infested artery.
The balloon is then inflated to push back the plaque and expand the artery
walls. With that done, the surgeon then inserts the stent to keep the
artery wide open.
Angioplasty can be done through a single incision thanks to small, flexible
cameras that can be inserted in the body which allow the surgeon to view
inside of the arteries on a nearby monitor. These procedures are usually
done on an outpatient basis, meaning you should be free to return home
only a few hours afterward.
After the procedure
If atherosclerosis reached a point where stenting was necessary, chances
are other arteries will clog too if lifestyle and dietary changes aren’t
made. You can work with one of our experienced
cardiac rehabilitation professionals to build a customized plan for clearing out your artery plaque.
