Things to Consider Before Choosing a Stent
Whether you are looking for a way to treat aortic aneurysms or prevent arteries from clotting, there are many things to consider before choosing a stent. Read on to learn more about how it works, how you can protect yourself from a stent, and what to expect after you have a stent put in.
Prevent arteries from re-closing
During a stenting procedure, a metal mesh tube called a stent is placed inside a blood vessel. It prevents the coils from protruding into the parent blood vessel, which helps to keep the artery open. The stent is usually coated with a drug to help prevent restenosis.
The main function of a stent is to stabilize a damaged artery. However, a stent can also create a lot of problems. For example, it can cause a lot of bleeding, tissue growth, and damage to the vessel lining.
There are many stents on the market, some of which are better than others. The best stents for you will depend on your artery type, the severity of your symptoms, and your healthcare provider’s recommendations. For instance, a non-metal stent may be a better choice than a metal one.
A stent is also used to treat an abdominal aortic aneurysm. Aneurysms are abnormally large balloons that form on the wall of the aorta, which carries blood to the rest of the body. Aneurysms can rupture and cause a subarachnoid hemorrhage, which is a serious and painful type of bleed.
A stent is also used in a procedure known as balloon angioplasty. This involves using a balloon to open a narrowed blood vessel. It is also used to treat a blood clot. The procedure is performed by a cardiologist, who is an expert in angioplasty. A small incision is made in the groin or wrist, depending on where the blockage is located. The balloon is inflated, which opens the artery and restores blood flow. Once the stent is in place, a guidewire is threaded through it.
A catheter is then passed through the artery, which is sometimes painful. Various medications may be administered after the procedure, including aspirin. The catheter may also be removed with a deflated balloon. The stent is left to do its job, but you will be asked to avoid brisk exercise and swimming for several days. You will also be required to drink lots of fluids after the procedure.
Unlike some of the more invasive stent procedures, endovascular therapy can be performed in a hospital without requiring an operating room. This is particularly helpful for patients who cannot undergo surgery for various reasons, such as diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure.
Treat aortic aneurysms
Whether you have a thoracic or abdominal aortic aneurysm, there are many treatment options available. These include surgery and endovascular treatments. Both methods have benefits, but the type of treatment you’ll receive depends on the size and location of your aneurysm.
Endovascular stent grafting is a procedure in which a metal stent is placed inside the aorta. It helps to reduce pressure and prevents the aneurysm from rupturing. This can be a safe and effective alternative to open surgery.
For patients with thoracic aneurysms, aortic stent grafts can be used to reline the aorta and take pressure off the aneurysm. It can also be used to push layers of the aorta back together in an aortic dissection.
There are two types of endovascular stent grafts: one that is covered with an impermeable fabric and one that is designed to be flexible. Choosing the right treatment for you depends on the size and location of your aneurysm and your overall health.
During an aortic aneurysm repair, your surgeon will use an x-ray monitor to guide the catheter. This allows your doctor to see how the stent graft is placed in the aorta. Once your stent graft has been placed, your doctor will perform a follow-up exam to ensure that it is functioning properly. You should not lift more than 10 pounds for four to six weeks after the procedure.
During the aneurysm repair, a small incision is made in the groin. Then a catheter is inserted into the femoral artery and guided into the aorta. Once the stent graft is in place, the doctor will insert an artificial blood vessel.
Using a stent graft is a safe and effective way to treat thoracic aortic aneurysms. It is a minimally invasive procedure, which is less painful and has a lower rate of complications.
A thoracic aortic aneurysm can be a life-threatening condition. If you have this type of aneurysm, you may experience symptoms like hoarseness and difficulty breathing. In addition, aneurysms can put pressure on nerves, which can lead to a loss of consciousness. You should contact your doctor immediately if you feel that you have an aortic aneurysm.
Prevent blood clots
Using stents to prevent blood clots may be an option for people who have had a heart attack. They are small mesh tubes that are inserted into narrow arteries to keep them open.
Stents can also be used to treat abdominal aortic aneurysms. They are inserted into the artery to keep it open and help it heal. Some of the stents are coated with a medication to prevent a clot from forming. Other stents are bare metal. These stents are preferred in patients with a high risk of bleeding.
These stents are coated with a drug that is released in the body to prevent a blood clot from forming inside the stent. They also prevent scar tissue from forming. Some studies have suggested that these stents are safer than other types.
However, there are still risks associated with stents. One study found that about 1 to 2 percent of people who have stents in place develop a blood clot in the location where the stent was placed. This can be a serious problem.
Depending on the type of stent you have, your health care provider will give you instructions on how to take your medicine. Some of the medicines will be taken by mouth, while others will be taken through an IV. You will need to get regular blood tests to make sure you are taking the proper amount of medicine.
You will be prescribed an antiplatelet medication, such as clopidogrel. The length of time you will need to take these drugs depends on your medical history. You will probably need to be on them for at least three months after you have had the stent inserted. The health care team will give you specific instructions on what to take and how much to take.
You will also have to take aspirin to keep your stent from clotting. If you are a high-risk patient, you might be advised to take a stronger antiplatelet drug, such as ticagrelor.
You should be able to stop taking your blood thinners after about six months. You should ask your doctor if it is safe for you to move around while you are on the stent. You should also be monitored for any changes in your heart function.
Recovery
Getting a heart stent is a life-saving procedure that can improve your heart’s health. While the recovery time is different for each patient, a successful stent surgery can help reduce chest pain and shortness of breath.
In addition to a stent, you may be advised to change your lifestyle to make your heart healthier. This could include quitting smoking, eating a heart-healthy diet, or exercising. This can help reduce your cholesterol level, blood pressure, and risk of plaque buildup.
Typically, a stent will be placed through a small cut in your artery. The stent acts as an internal scaffold to keep the artery open. This is done through a procedure called balloon angioplasty. During the procedure, a catheter is inserted through the artery, then a balloon is inflated to expand the artery. Once the stent is in place, it stays in for the rest of your life.
The balloon is removed after x-rays show that the stent is working. After a few days, you can start to resume light activities. You may be instructed to take aspirin and other medicines to prevent blood clots from forming. You will need to take these medications for the length of time that your doctor prescribes. You should discuss any side effects with your doctor, and you should not stop taking your medications without his or her approval.
If you have a stent placed, you should expect to be tired and sore for several weeks. You will also experience some bruising at the site where the catheter was inserted. If you are experiencing a fever, you should see your doctor.
During recovery, you will need to drink plenty of fluids. You may be given fluids through a vein in your arm. You should avoid heavy lifting for at least a week. You will also need to go to follow-up visits and get your heart checked periodically.
Depending on the type of stent you have, you may have to take medications for up to a year. These drugs will prevent blood clots from forming inside the stent. They will also prevent scar tissue from forming inside the stent.
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