What is angioplasty stenting?
Angioplasty stenting is actually two separate procedures, angioplasty and stent placement, that are commonly performed together. An angioplasty opens up a clogged artery, often by widening it with a balloon catheter. Then, a small mesh tube (stent) is placed into the artery to hold it open and help stop it from narrowing again.
When are angioplasty and stent placement necessary?
Angioplasty stenting helps restore blood flow in any area where there’s a blockage or narrowing of the arteries. It’s commonly used in the neck, arms, legs, kidneys, pelvis and, especially, the heart to treat conditions like:
- Coronary artery disease
- Carotid artery disease
- Chronic kidney disease
- Peripheral artery disease
Each of these diseases are caused by atherosclerosis, which is when fat and cholesterol combine to clog up your arteries. Atherosclerosis develops over time and may not present any symptoms until you suffer a stroke or heart attack. Angioplasty stenting is used to prevent heart attack or stroke, as well as in emergency situations when you’re already suffering one.
What are the risks of angioplasty stenting?
Heart attack and stroke are risks if you don’t undergo angioplasty stenting. But they are also potential risks of the procedure itself, along with lesser complications, including:
- Bleeding or blood clots
- Infection
- Chest pain
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Ruptured artery
- Kidney damage
- Allergic reactions
Your actual risk of these serious complications is rather small. Although older adults and people with kidney disease or heart failure have a much higher risk.
How do you prepare for an angioplasty and stenting procedure?
Angioplasty stenting is a minimally invasive procedure that can take as little as 30 minutes. But you typically have to stay in the hospital overnight for monitoring and follow-up tests.
To prepare for your procedure, you’ll need to follow your doctor’s specific instructions, which may include guidelines for fasting, taking (or stopping) medications and prepping the spot on your body where the catheter will be placed. You may also have a range of tests in the lead-up to your procedure, including blood tests, an echocardiogram or a chest X-ray.
What should I expect after getting an angioplasty and stents?
Angioplasty stenting is one of the most common procedures performed today. It’s also much less invasive than surgery, so you can expect fewer risks and a quicker recovery. You’ll leave your procedure with stents inside the artery and two small wounds — one from the catheter, the other from the IV. With clear arteries and better circulation, any chest pain or shortness of breath you experienced before the procedure will be reduced or relieved.
Initial recovery from an angioplasty and stent placement includes:
- Resting at home
- Avoiding strenuous activity
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Taking medications such as aspirin or blood thinners
Often, you’re able to return to work in about a week — less if your condition allows or your procedure was in an area of the body other than the heart.