A heart stent, also known as a coronary stent, is a small, mesh-like device used to treat blocked or narrowed coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart. Here's an overview:
What is a heart stent?
- A small, flexible tube made of metal or plastic
- Coated with a drug to prevent further blockage
- Designed to keep the artery open and improve blood flow
How is it implanted?
- Inserted through an artery in the leg or arm (angioplasty)
- Guided to the blocked coronary artery using X-ray imaging
- Expanded using a balloon to fit the artery
Benefits:
- Relieves chest pain (angina)
- Reduces risk of heart attack
- Improves blood flow to the heart
- Minimally invasive procedure
- Quick recovery time
Types of heart stents:
- Bare metal stents
- Drug-eluting stents (release medication to prevent blockage)
- Bioresorbable stents (dissolve over time)
* Risks and complications:*
- Blood clots
- Restenosis (re-blockage)
- Allergic reactions
- Bleeding or infection at the insertion site
Overall, heart stents are a common and effective treatment for coronary artery disease, offering quick relief from symptoms and improved heart health.
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