A stent is a tiny mesh tube comprised of either cobalt chromium alloy or stainless steel. It is placed into the narrowed or blocked artery by way of a catheter and the intent is to help improve blood flow and reduce and even eliminate chest pain symptoms.

Stents are intended to last a lifetime and never need to be replaced.

Physicians recommend stenting for patients who have obstructive artery disease and are suffering with shortness of breath, pain, or tightness in their chest. They are a good alternative to bypass surgery and far less invasive.

The procedure

Placement of the stent is done using a coronary angiogram (small balloon catheter tube) which is inserted by way of the femoral or radial artery (leg or arm) and follows the pathways to the heart. The wire is then slid in along the balloon till the correct placement is found and situated.

Recovery

While it may seem like a very serious surgical procedure recovery from implantation is usually pretty fast. Patients can resume activities as usual within just 24 hours. Some may experience minor bruising which will subside in a few days.

Recommendation

There is an elevated risk of blood clots following this procedure. Aspirin therapy may be required for up to a full year as a precaution.

Does Stenting Cure Coronary Artery Disease?

While it is not a cure, it does help prevent arteries from becoming blocked or being able to narrow again. Speak with your cardiologist at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates to learn more about your condition and see if a stent implantation may be right for you.

 

Tampa Cardiovascular Associates of Tampa Bay, Florida recommend lifestyle changes, dietary upgrades, being physically active, and not smoking as preventive measures to heart issues. We are here to help no matter where you are in your path of heart health.

Give us a call today at 813-975-2800 or visit us on the web at www.tampacardio.com