Things to know about angioplasty and stent placement
Heart block is one of the most common cardiac problems that most people are diagnosed with. It occurs for various reasons, from high cholesterol in the blood to plaque formation on the inner walls of the arteries or veins. The blocks can be treated with medicines and a strict lifestyle when diagnosed in the initial stages.
But if the diagnosis is done later and the blood flow is restricted, doctors need to go for surgical methods. Angioplasty is the most common treatment method to remove the block and restore the original blood flow in the vessels. However, it has several drawbacks and is also considered to be an obsolete treatment process.
This is where angioplasty with a stent is considered the latest and newest form of treatment for heart and vessel blocks. Specific facts about angioplasty with a stent for better clarification have been mentioned below.
What is angioplasty? How is it different from stent placement?
Angioplasty is a process through which a catheter is first inserted into the artery. It is then moved towards the block's position, and a balloon is blown inside. It widens the lumen of the vessel and allows the blood to flow. However, this method is temporary. That's why it is usually used to remove small-sized blocks.
However, angioplasty with stent placement is chosen when the block is large and can threaten the patient's life. In this process, a mesh metal tube is inserted into the blood vessel with the help of the catheter. Once it reaches the spot where the block is formed, it is released and left in the area to widen the blood vessels. As it remains inside the blood vessels, the stent is a permanent solution that allows a better and unhindered blood flow.
Risks of angioplasty with stent
Since you are now aware of angioplasty with a stent, you should also know the associated risks to prevent any misconception from forming in your mind. In this below section, we have described the risks you should be aware of.
1. Sometimes, bleeding can happen at the place from where the catheter is inserted into the body, like the wrist and groin.
2. Blood may clot at the location of the stent placement. This is one of the most significant risk factors as this can block the blood flow, preventing the heart to work properly.
3. Abnormal heart rhythms are also concerning after angioplasty surgery with stent placement. However, this is a rare scenario and does not usually happen in patients.
4. Infection at the site of catheter insertion is a common risk factor that doctors are always wary of. Due to the infection, the patient may experience fever.
5. If typical angioplasty is performed, there are higher chances of complete coronary artery closure, causing more problems. It further leads to immediate open-heart surgery.
6. Since some stents are coated with a protective layer to prevent stenosis, the chemical can cause rashes and allergic reactions.
7. Abnormal chest pain is associated with angioplasty surgery, with or without stents. It may lead to strokes or heart attacks.
Lifestyle after angioplasty or stent placement
You should know the lifestyle changes to undergo once the angioplasty or stent placement surgery is done. Following are the precautions you should exercise:
1. You won't be allowed to do any heavy exercise, whether lifting something or exercising.
2. Also, you have to put a big no to smoking and alcohol consumption as that can adversely affect the stent.
3. You will be given several medications that you need to take without fail.
4. The diet will also be restricted as you won't be allowed to eat oily, too much fat, fried items, etc.
The above information briefly explains angioplasty and the stent placement process. If you have more concerns, you must consult your doctor about your doubts, especially the eligibility for the surgery and the risks. You can visit Medipulse hospital for treatments.