Stents: Effective in Treating Narrowed Arteries, but Blood Clot Risk Persists
Stents, tiny mesh tubes inserted into narrowed arteries, are a common treatment for severe atherosclerosis. These devices, used in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), help maintain blood flow and prevent heart attacks. However, they carry a risk of blood clots post-procedure, which can be minimized with a healthy lifestyle and anticlotting medications.
Stents are recommended by health organizations like the American Heart Association (AHA) and the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) for treating blocked coronary arteries. They are placed over a catheter and expanded within the artery, where they remain permanently to prevent restenosis.
PCI involves mechanically opening narrow arteries using tiny balloons in a process called angioplasty. Stents are then inserted to keep the artery open. This procedure is often advised for people with atherosclerosis, chronic shortness of breath, history of heart attacks, persistent chest pain, or unstable angina.
Modern stents are drug-covered to prevent clots, and anticlotting medications are prescribed after surgery. Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with aspirin and a P2Y12 inhibitor is typically advised for a specified duration. However, stents are not recommended for people with stable angina or severe disease in multiple vessels due to the risk of complications.
Stent procedures, while effective in treating narrowed arteries, carry a risk of blood clots post-surgery. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and adhering to anticlotting medication regimens can significantly minimize this risk. It's crucial for patients to understand the benefits and potential complications of stent procedures and follow their doctor's advice for a successful recovery.
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