How Coronary Artery Stenting Is Performed and the Advantages of this Non-Invasive Procedure

Heart Anatomy

Your coronary arteries supply oxygen and nutrients to your heart. Their role is vital since your heart is in constant motion. The oxygen and nutrients they deliver will maintain the functioning of your heart. Blockages of arteries can be caused by high levels of blood cholesterol which will coat the inner linings of these blood vessels, restricting the flow of blood.

Advantages of Stents

Coronary artery stenting is one procedure your doctor may elect to use in order to restore normal blood flow. The stent leaves a wide, smooth opening in the coronary artery. They are safe and exhibit a reduced risk of the blockage reoccurring.

The procedure is non-invasive unlike bypass surgery. HeartSite.com estimates that up to 75 percent of arterial blockages are treated with stents.

Stent Procedure

Coronary artery stenting begins with an assessment of the blockage. A catheter is inserted in another artery located in the groin area via a small incision. The size of the artery allows your doctor to guide the catheter to your heart. To determine the extent of damage, your doctor will inject a colorless dye into the catheter so that your coronary arteries will be visible during an x-ray.

Your doctor will then use a stent balloon catheter to prepare the site for the stent. Inflating the balloon will place the stent at the damage site. The stent is mesh-like material which will rest on the inner lining of your coronary artery, preventing it from closing up again.

Precautions during the Procedure

Your doctor will give you a blood thinner such as heparin or clopidogrel during the procedure to prevent blood clots. You will likely stay on this medication or aspirin for your entire life.

The procedure will take less than one hour. However, you will not be able to walk for some time afterwards. One risk of the procedure is bleeding from the artery used to place the stent. A clamp will provide direct pressure until the wound is healed. You may be confined to bed for several hours until it has clotted properly. In most cases, you will go home the next day.

After Care

Most of the after care for the stent procedure is additional precautions regarding the groin artery. Your doctor may instruct you not to lift anything over 10 pounds for a week to 10 days. You may experience minor pain or bruising at the site of the incision. If you experience bleeding or intense discomfort, contact your doctor immediately.

Long-term care will involve high blood pressure control and atherosclerosis prevention. Your doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes such as weight loss and dieting to prevent future heart issues.

Treated a blocked coronary artery is a safe procedure which can reduce your risk of stroke and further heart damage while improving your quality of life.

Reference

American Heart Association: Stent Procedure – americanheart.org

Heart Site: Coronary Stents – heartsite.com