Coronary artery stenting is a common procedure used to treat blocked or narrowed arteries in the heart. This minimally invasive treatment helps restore blood flow to the heart muscle, reducing the risk of heart attacks and other complications. At Vista Health, we provide expert care for patients requiring coronary artery stenting, ensuring that each individual receives a personalized treatment plan. In this blog, we’ll explain what coronary artery stenting is, who needs it, and what to expect during and after the procedure.

What is Coronary Artery Stenting?

Coronary artery stenting is a procedure used to open up narrowed or blocked arteries, allowing blood to flow more freely to the heart muscle. During the procedure, a small mesh tube called a stent is inserted into the affected artery. The stent acts as a scaffold, keeping the artery open after it has been widened with a balloon (angioplasty).

The procedure is often used to treat coronary artery disease (CAD), a condition where plaque buildup causes the arteries to narrow, reducing blood flow to the heart. Without treatment, CAD can lead to serious complications, including heart attacks.

Common Questions About Coronary Artery Stenting

1. Who needs a coronary artery stent?Coronary artery stenting is typically recommended for patients who have:

• Stable or unstable angina (chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart).

• Heart attack: Stenting can restore blood flow quickly in patients experiencing a heart attack.

• Severe coronary artery disease: If medications and lifestyle changes are not enough to manage symptoms, stenting may be recommended.

  
  

2. How long does a coronary artery stent last?Stents are designed to be permanent. Most stents are made of metal and remain in the artery to keep it open. Drug-eluting stents (DES) release medication over time to help prevent the artery from narrowing again. In some cases, arteries may narrow or become blocked again (restenosis), but modern stents significantly reduce this risk.

3. What is the recovery time after a stent procedure?Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days after a coronary stent procedure. However, it’s important to follow your doctor’s advice about rest, medication, and any activity restrictions. In many cases, patients are advised to avoid strenuous physical activity for a short period after the procedure.

Symptoms That May Indicate You Need a Coronary Artery Stent

Many patients who undergo stenting first notice symptoms of coronary artery disease, which may include:

• Chest Pain (Angina): A common sign of narrowed arteries, especially during physical activity or stress.

• Shortness of Breath: Reduced blood flow can make it harder for your heart to pump oxygenated blood to your body.

• Heart Attack Symptoms: Intense chest pain, discomfort in the left arm, neck, or back, nausea, lightheadedness, vomiting, sweating and shortness of breath.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Timely intervention with stenting can prevent more serious complications.

The Coronary Artery Stenting Procedure

How is coronary artery stenting performed?Stenting is a minimally invasive procedure typically performed in a hospital’s catheterization lab. Here’s what to expect during the procedure:

1. Preparation: You’ll be given a local anesthetic to numb the area, and a sedative may be provided to help you relax.

2. Angioplasty: A catheter with a tiny balloon is threaded through the arteries to the blockage. The balloon is inflated to widen the artery.

3. Stent Placement: Once the artery is widened, the stent is inserted to keep it open. The balloon is then deflated and removed, leaving the stent in place.

4. Recovery: After the procedure, you’ll need to rest for a few hours. Most patients go home the same day or after a short hospital stay.

After the Procedure: What to Expect

After coronary artery stenting, your doctor will likely prescribe medications to prevent blood clots from forming in the stent. These medications, often called antiplatelet therapy, are essential for reducing the risk of complications. Common medications include aspirin and clopidogrel (Plavix).

In addition to medications, it’s important to make lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of further heart problems. These changes may include:

• Eating a heart-healthy diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

• Regular exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week.

• Quit smoking: Smoking can damage the lining of your arteries and contribute to plaque buildup.

When to See a Cardiologist

If you have been diagnosed with coronary artery disease or are experiencing symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath, it’s important to consult with a cardiologist. At Vista Health, our team of cardiovascular specialists, led by Dr. Irfan Mirza (Nevada) , provides expert care for heart conditions, including coronary artery stenting.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Schedule a consultation with Vista Health today by calling (928) 237-4418 or visit our website to learn more about our services.