Coronary stent

Coronary stent is a small tube-shaped device that is inserted into the coronary arteries of the heart to keep the arteries open in the treatment of coronary heart disease (CHD). It is used in a procedure known as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or coronary angioplasty. This article provides a comprehensive overview of coronary stents, including their types, the procedure for implantation, potential risks, and aftercare.

Types of Coronary Stents

There are mainly two types of coronary stents: bare-metal stents (BMS) and drug-eluting stents (DES).

• Bare-Metal Stents are made of a metal mesh without any coating. They were the first type of stents used in angioplasty but are less commonly used now due to a higher risk of restenosis, which is the re-narrowing of the artery.
• Drug-Eluting Stents have a coating that releases medication into the artery walls to prevent restenosis. DES are more commonly used due to their lower risk of restenosis compared to BMS.

Procedure

The procedure to implant a coronary stent, often part of a percutaneous coronary intervention, involves several steps:

1. A thin guide wire is inserted through a small incision in the groin or wrist and navigated to the affected coronary artery. 2. A balloon catheter, with a stent mounted around it, is then advanced over the guide wire to the narrowed section of the artery. 3. The balloon is inflated, expanding the stent and pressing it against the artery wall. 4. The balloon is deflated and removed, leaving the stent in place to keep the artery open.

Risks and Complications

While the procedure is generally safe, there are potential risks and complications, including:

• Allergic reaction to the contrast dye used in the procedure
• Bleeding at the catheter insertion site
• Blood clots within the stent (stent thrombosis)
• Heart attack
• Infection
• Restenosis within the stent

Aftercare

After the procedure, patients are usually prescribed medications to prevent blood clots, such as aspirin and a P2Y12 inhibitor. It is also important for patients to adopt heart-healthy lifestyle changes to improve the overall health of their heart and reduce the risk of future heart problems.

Conclusion

Coronary stents have revolutionized the treatment of coronary heart disease, offering a minimally invasive option to improve blood flow and alleviate symptoms of heart disease. However, it is important for patients to understand the potential risks and to follow their healthcare provider's recommendations for aftercare to ensure the best outcomes.