The Stent Experience: From Angioplasty to Recovery in Cardiology

A stent is a small, metal tube that keeps your artery open, allowing better blood flow. After an angioplasty, where plaque inside the artery is pushed aside, a stent can be placed to prevent the artery from narrowing again. After the Stent surgery is permanent and is also used to keep airways or ducts open. For cardiac patients, it’s essential to find the best cardiologist hospital in Noida for optimal care.

For any medical concerns, visit Felix Hospital in Noida. Call us now at +91 9667064100.
 

What is a Stent?

A stent is a small tube inserted by doctors into a blocked passageway to maintain its openness, facilitating the flow of blood or other fluids. While commonly used in arteries, stents also find application in various other parts of the body. For cardiac patients, choosing the Best Cardiologist hospital in Noida is crucial for receiving optimal care and treatment involving stents, ensuring the best possible outcomes for heart-related conditions.
 

Types of Stents

• Material: Stents can be made of metal or plastic. Larger stents, known as stent grafts, are used for bigger arteries and may be made from specialized fabrics.
   
• Medication: Some stents are coated with medication to prevent the artery from closing again after placement.
   

Size and Shape

• Coronary Stents: These are typically 8 to 48 millimeters (up to almost 2 inches) long and 2 to 5 millimeters (up to one-quarter inch) in diameter. This size is comparable to the length of a large paper clip and the diameter of a new crayon tip to a pencil eraser.
   
• Other Stents: Can vary in size, with some being much larger.
   

Placement and Permanence

During the procedure, a healthcare provider expands the stent inside the artery to keep it open. Most stents remain in the artery permanently, resembling tiny fishing nets. While many stents are made of metal, other materials are also used for specific types.

Why Do I Need a Stent?

A stent is a small, flexible tube typically made of metal mesh or fabric. It is used in medical procedures to treat narrowed or blocked blood vessels and other passageways in the body.

In coronary arteries of the heart, stents are crucial for restoring blood flow when plaque buildup (comprising cholesterol and other substances) obstructs these vital pathways. By expanding within the artery, stents effectively widen the vessel, preventing heart attacks and improving overall cardiac function.

Beyond coronary arteries, stents are deployed in various areas to address blockages and maintain proper function of critical passages:

• Bile Ducts: These tubes carry bile from the liver to the digestive system. When obstructed, typically by gallstones or tumors, stents help keep the bile ducts open, allowing bile to flow freely and aiding digestion.
   
• Bronchi: Stents are used in the small airways of the lungs (bronchi) to alleviate blockages caused by conditions like tumors or inflammation. By keeping the air passages clear, stents support breathing and lung function.
   
• Ureters: These tubes transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder. Stents placed in ureters help manage blockages due to kidney stones, tumors, or other conditions. They ensure urine can pass unimpeded, preventing kidney damage and maintaining urinary health.
   

In each application, stents are essential for alleviating blockages and ensuring the uninterrupted flow of fluids vital to bodily functions. Their flexibility and ability to conform to different anatomical structures make them indispensable in modern medical interventions aimed at enhancing quality of life and preventing serious health complications.
Advantages of Stents
 

Stents offer several advantages:

1. They enhance blood flow within the artery where they are placed.

2. When combined with Angioplasty, they can effectively prevent a heart attack.

3. They alleviate symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath when used in coronary arteries.

4. Stents help maintain the diameter of the artery, reducing the likelihood of it narrowing again.

5. Compared to coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG), stent placement is a minimally invasive procedure, leading to faster recovery times for patients.

Risk factors of Stent

Stents offer several advantages:

1. They enhance blood flow within the artery where they are placed.

2. When combined with angioplasty, they can effectively prevent a heart attack.

3. They alleviate symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath when used in coronary arteries.

4. Stents help maintain the diameter of the artery, reducing the likelihood of it narrowing again.

5. Compared to coronary artery Bypass Surgery (CABG), stent placement is a minimally invasive procedure, leading to faster recovery times for patients.

Cardiologist of Felix Hospital

1. Dr. Siddharth Samrat: A seasoned Cardiologist specializing in cardiac procedures, Dr. Samrat has conducted more than 500 coronary angiographies, performed over 250 angioplasties, and implanted more than 150 pacemakers within a span of just two years.
 

2. Dr. Rahul Arora: With extensive experience spanning over 13 years, Dr. Arora is a committed Interventional Cardiologist recognized for his exemplary patient care and contributions to advancing the field of cardiology.
 

3. Dr. Syed Zafrul Hasan: Bringing over a decade of expertise, Dr. Hasan excels in both Non-Invasive (ECHO, Stress Echo, TMT) and Invasive Cardiology procedures (TPI, Central Line, Arterial Line insertion, intubation), demonstrating proficiency and dedication in comprehensive cardiac care.
 

If you have any Cardiological concerns, Book an appointment today at Felix Hospital. Call now +91 9667064100.
 

Conclusion

Stents are small tubes used to keep arteries open and improve blood flow in the body. They are crucial in treating blockages, preventing heart attacks, and relieving symptoms like chest pain. Stents are also used in other parts of the body to maintain the flow of fluids. Choosing the right hospital and cardiologist in Noida is essential for effective treatment and optimal recovery for heart-related conditions.

FAQs

1. What is a stent used for?
ANS:  A stent is used to treat narrowed or blocked arteries and other passageways in the body. It helps maintain open blood flow and can prevent complications like heart attacks.
 

2. How serious is having a stent put in?
ANS: Stent placement is considered a minimally invasive procedure. While it involves some risks, complications are generally rare. It's important to follow medical advice for optimal recovery.
 

3. How long do stents stay in?
ANS: Stents are typically permanent once placed in coronary arteries. In other areas of the body, such as bile ducts or ureters, they may be temporary or permanent depending on the condition being treated.
 

4. What causes a person to need a stent?
ANS:  A stent is needed when arteries or other passages become narrowed or blocked due to conditions like atherosclerosis (buildup of plaque), which can restrict blood flow and lead to serious health issues.
 

5. Is stent surgery painful?
ANS: During the procedure, local anesthesia is usually used to minimize discomfort. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or soreness afterward, but severe pain is uncommon.
 

6. Does a stent last 10 years?
ANS: Stents are designed to be durable and can last for many years. The longevity depends on various factors, including the type of stent and the patient's overall health. Regular medical follow-up is important to monitor the stent's effectiveness.
 

7. Is stent surgery major?
ANS: Stent placement is generally considered a minor surgical procedure because it's minimally invasive. However, it is important and requires skilled medical personnel to perform safely.
 

8. Is 7 stents a lot?
ANS: The number of stents needed depends on the severity and location of blockages in the arteries. Having multiple stents placed is not uncommon in cases where multiple arteries are affected.
 

9. What to avoid after a stent?
ANS: After receiving a stent, it's typically recommended to avoid smoking, maintain a healthy diet, manage stress, and adhere to prescribed medications. Physical activities should be discussed with a healthcare provider to ensure safety.
 

10. How to sleep with a stent?
ANS:  Sleeping after stent placement should ideally involve lying flat on your back or side. Avoid putting direct pressure on the area where the stent was placed to minimize discomfort.