Benefits of Cardiac Stent Fitted after Heart Attack

The coronary arteries deliver blood to the heart muscle. Over time, these arteries can get blocked due to plaque build-up that can limit the blood flow. This condition is called coronary heart disease. However, a stunt fitted after a heart attack can help limit this condition and supply proper blood flow to the heart. Otherwise, your heart muscle can get damaged and increase the risk of a heart attack.

Cardiac Stent

A cardiac stent is utilized to manage narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. It is also used to enhance the blood flow instantly after a heart attack. These stents are expandable coils made out of metal mesh, which gives them elasticity. It can be inserted during coronary angioplasty, a minimally invasive and non-surgical procedure.

The cardiac stents are specifically designed to support the artery walls, improve the heart’s blood circulation of the heart, and keep the arteries open. Angioplasty with stenting is generally advised for patients with only one or two blocked arteries. However, for more than two blocked arteries, bypass surgery may be a better option. Stent fitted after a heart attack increases the chances of better heart functioning and blood regulation.

Insertion of Cardiac Stent

Your surgeon can implant a cardiac stent under local anesthesia. For this, they will make a tiny incision either in your groin, arm, or neck. Then, they will insert a catheter with a stent and balloon on the tip. Special dyes and monitors are used to guide the catheter to the narrowed or blocked coronary artery through your blood vessels. Once they reach the narrowed or blocked area, they will inflate the balloon, resulting in expanding the stent and ultimately stretching your artery. This mechanism allows an increase in blood flow. After this, your doctor will deflate the balloon and remove the catheter, leaving the stent behind. A filter will prevent plaque and blood clots from coming free and floating openly in your bloodstream during this procedure. After the process, you will need to take medications to aid in preventing clotting within the stent.

As your artery begins to heal, your tissue will merge with the mesh of the stent. It will add strength to your artery.

Benefits of Cardiac StentĀ 

Following are the benefits of stent fitted after a heart attack:

1- Improves Quality of LifeĀ 

The blend of angioplasty and stenting can be a lifesaver, primarily when performed right after a heart attack. For many people, inserting stents has a positive impact on their quality of life. Doctors also prioritize inserting a stent if you suffer from a cardiac arrest.

2- Improves Blood Flow

Stent fitted after a heart attack can substantially improve your blood flow and prevent any further damage to your heart muscles. Moreover, it can improve symptoms of heart diseases, like angina and shortness of breath. Most of the time, you will feel the benefits right after the procedure.

3- Eliminate the Chances for Surgery

Most of the time, inserting a stent can eliminate the chances of extensive surgery, such as coronary bypass surgery. It can save you from prolonged recovery time and surgery pains.

3- Less Invasive

Inserting a stent requires a tiny incision that can be healed soon. The recovery time also consists of a couple of days. You do not have to wait for 6 to 8 weeks to recover from a cardiac stent insertion as you need in coronary bypass surgery.

Deciding whether or not you qualify for stenting depends on many factors, including the number of blocked arteries and other health conditions you may have.

Risks & Complications

Like many medical procedures, you may show an allergic reaction to the medications or materials used for stenting or angioplasty. This procedure can also cause damage to the blood vessel or heart, bleeding, or irregular heartbeats. Some rare complications include kidney failure, heart attack, and stroke.

After this procedure, scar tissue may form inside your stent. If this happens, a second procedure may be required to clear it. There is also a chance of blood clots forming within your stent. You will need to take medicines to help counter this. Thus, you should be vigilant in reporting any chest pain to your doctor right away.

If you want more information regarding stents, you can book an appointment with the best cardiologist in Karachi through Marham.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1- What should I avoid after having my stent fitted?

You should avoid lifting heavy objects after your stent is inserted.

2- How long does a stent take to settle?

It can take up to 12 to 24 hours to settle after the procedure is done.

3- How many stents can a person have?

A person can have up to 5 or 6 stents if need be.

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