A stent is a small metal coil or tube that is placed in a narrowed artery to hold it open. To place the stent, your healthcare provider first performs angioplasty or atherectomy to compress or cut away plaque buildup in the artery. Sometimes the stent can be placed during a balloon angioplasty.
Here's how stent placement works:
- The balloon catheter with a stent is put in place.
- The balloon is expanded.
- The balloon is deflated and removed. The stent remains behind to hold open the artery and help maintain good blood flow.
In some cases, your healthcare providers may use a medication-coated stent (also called a drug-eluting stent). This type of stent may further reduce restenosis (renarrowing of the artery) by discouraging scar tissue from forming in the stent area. Your healthcare provider will choose the best stent for your unique situation.
A stent placement is performed by doing a left heart catheterization through the groin or wrist.
A stent placement is performed by accessing the vascular system and putting it in place. Most stents are mounted on a balloon catheter that travels through the blood vessels.
Continue Learning about Implantable Medical Devices For The Heart
Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.