Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. A coronary stent is a small, metal mesh tube that is placed into narrowed or blocked coronary arteries to restore proper blood flow. This medical device can help prevent heart attacks and reduce the symptoms of coronary artery disease. By keeping the arteries open and blood flowing properly, a coronary stent improves heart function and enhances overall cardiovascular health.
A coronary stent is a small, expandable tube placed inside a person's artery. A cardiologist will place this device over a thin, long tube with a balloon tip, also known as a catheter, following an emergency procedure known as a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or angioplasty. Once the stent reaches the desired size to widen the clogged artery, the doctor will deflate and remove the balloon.
The stent helps prevent arteries from becoming blocked again after plaque buildup restricts blood flow. It will likely stay in place permanently to help prop open the artery and decrease its chance of narrowing. Over time, the inner lining of the artery will grow over the surface of the stent and become a permanent part of the artery.
There are multiple cardiovascular benefits of coronary stents, specifically for those with coronary artery disease. These benefits include:
There are two main types of coronary stents: bare-metal stents (BMS) and drug-eluting stents (DES). The choice of stent depends on various factors, including the patient's medical history and the severity of artery narrowing.
These stents are tiny wire mesh tubes. However, they are not coated with a polymer or drugs to help prevent artery re-blockage. This type of stent may be used in patients allergic to either the polymer or drugs in drug-eluting stents.
Drug-eluting coronary stents are bare-metal stents coated with a polymer that gradually releases medicine over time to prevent re-blockage. There are two types of drug-eluting stents: a permanent polymer drug-eluting stent and a bioabsorbable polymer drug-eluting stent. A permanent polymer drug-eluting stent contains polymers that stay on the stent permanently, even after all the drug has been released.
Whereas, a bioabsorbable polymer drug-eluting stent has a polymer and drug coating that is fully absorbed by the body shortly after the drug has been released, limiting the risks associated with long-term polymer exposure.
Although coronary stents are an effective way to prevent cardiovascular events, there are some risks associated with this type of device. Possible complications include an increased risk of blood clots, restenosis, and allergic reactions to the stent material or medication. Cardiologists will typically prescribe blood-thinning medications to reduce the risk of clotting. Additionally, regular follow-up appointments help ensure that the stent remains effective and that complications can be addressed as soon as possible.
While coronary stents are an effective way to address heart disease, they are not a permanent cure. A person's long-term heart health depends on compliance with other treatments and general lifestyle habits. They should adopt a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, as well as regular physical activity as recommended by their cardiologist. Additionally, proper relaxation techniques and a regular sleep schedule can reduce stress on the heart.
Coronary stents help restore blood flow and prevent life-threatening complications. With the right approach, individuals with coronary stents can enjoy improved cardiovascular function and a higher quality of life. Call our Delray Beach office to learn more about how to protect your heart health or schedule an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://floridapremiercardio.com or call Florida Premier Cardiology at (561) 325-6495 for an appointment in our Delray Beach office.
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