Stent Placement: Overview, Preparation, Procedure, Recovery, Risks, and Aftercare
Overview
A stent is a medical device used to treat a variety of conditions that cause blockages or narrowing of blood vessels and ducts in the body. Stents are mesh-like tubes made of metal or plastic that are inserted into the affected area to restore or improve blood flow. In a hospital setting, an interventional radiologist or cardiologist typically performs this procedure.
Preparation
Patients may need to do the following before receiving a stent placement procedure:
-
In order to determine if patients are suitable candidates for the procedure, they will undergo a thorough medical evaluation.
-
In order to reduce the risk of bleeding during and after the procedure, patients may need to adjust their medications, particularly blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs.
-
Before sedation or anesthesia, patients may need to fast for a certain period of time.
Procedure
Stent placement typically involves the following steps:
-
Depending on the location and complexity of the procedure, patients may receive local anesthesia or general anesthesia to induce sleep and prevent pain.
-
Under fluoroscopic guidance, a thin, flexible wire called a guidewire is inserted into the blood vessel or duct to guide stent placement.
-
The stent is carefully guided to the site of the blockage or narrowing, then deployed in place. Once deployed, the stent expands to open up the vessel or duct and improve blood flow or drainage.
-
After the stent is placed, the healthcare provider will confirm its position and assess blood flow or fluid drainage.
Recovery
Patients can expect the following after stent placement:
-
A patient may be monitored in a recovery area after surgery to ensure that there are no immediate complications.
-
Following the procedure, patients may be advised to limit physical activity and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise to allow the stent to properly settle.
Risks
However, there are some risks and complications associated with stent placement, including:
-
When blood-thinning medications are used during the procedure, there is a small risk of bleeding at the insertion site.
-
A slight risk of infection exists at the insertion site or within the blood vessel or duct where the stent is inserted.
-
It is possible for blood clots to form within or near a stent, causing blockages or other complications.
Aftercare
Patients may need to do the following after stent placement:
-
To prevent blood clots and reduce complications, patients may need to take medications such as blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs.
-
In order to monitor progress, assess stent effectiveness, and address any concerns or complications, patients will need to attend follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider.
Stent placement is an effective and common procedure for treating various conditions that affect the blood vessels or ducts of the body. Patients can minimize the risk of complications after stent placement by following proper preparation, undergoing the procedure with a skilled healthcare provider, and following post-procedure instructions.
