What Exactly Is Angioplasty And What Do Stents Do?

| Awareness

What Exactly Is Angioplasty And What Do Stents Do?

 

Heart disease is one of the most lethal ailments in the world, with the leading cause of death being due to heart attack.

 

What is Angioplasty?


Angioplasty is a medical procedure used to improve blood flow through the arteries. The procedure involves inserting a small balloon into an artery and inflating it to widen the artery. This can increase blood flow and reduce symptoms of heart disease.

Stents are small devices that are placed in the arteries during angioplasty. They help keep the arteries open and improve blood flow. Stents are often used in combination with angioplasty to improve outcomes.

 

How does it work?


Angioplasty is a medical procedure used to improve blood flow in the arteries. A stent is a small, metal mesh tube that's placed in the artery during angioplasty to keep it open.

When you have angioplasty, a long, thin tube called a catheter is inserted into an artery in your arm or leg and threaded through your blood vessels to the blocked artery. A balloon attached to the end of the catheter is then inflated. This widens the artery and improves blood flow.

In some cases, a stent is placed in the artery during angioplasty to keep it open and help prevent it from becoming blocked again. Stents are usually made of metal mesh and are expandable so they can be easily inserted into narrowed arteries. Once in place, they're expanded so they fit snugly against the wall of the artery.

 

What do Stents do?


Angioplasty is a procedure used to improve blood flow through narrowed or blocked arteries. Stents are small, metal mesh tubes that are placed in the arteries to keep them open and improve blood flow.

Stents are commonly used in the treatment of coronary artery disease, which occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, and other substances found in the blood.

Coronary artery disease can lead to chest pain (angina), heart attack, or death. Angioplasty and stenting can improve blood flow and relieve symptoms of coronary artery disease.

The goal of angioplasty is to open up narrowed or blocked arteries and restore normal blood flow. Angioplasty is often done using a balloon catheter. The balloon is inflated at the site of the blockage, which widens the artery and improves blood flow.

Stenting is often done at the same time as angioplasty. The stent is placed at the site of the blockage and expanded. The stent helps keep the artery open and improve blood flow.

 

Is the Procedure Painful?


The procedure itself is not painful, as you will be given a local anesthetic to numb the area around the catheter insertion site. You may feel some pressure during the procedure, but this is typically not painful. Some people may experience discomfort from the intravenous line or from lying on the table for an extended period of time. After the procedure, you may have some bruising and soreness around the insertion site.

 

The Recovery Process


The recovery process for angioplasty is not as long or difficult as the recovery process for other surgeries. You can expect to stay in the hospital for one to two days after your surgery. During this time, you will be closely monitored so that your doctor can make sure that your stent is working properly. You will also be given pain medication to help you manage any discomfort you may feel.

Once you are released from the hospital, you will need to take it easy for a few days. Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting. You should also avoid driving until your doctor gives you the green light. After a week or so, you should be able to resume your normal activities.

If you have any questions or concerns about your recovery, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor or the staff at the hospital where you had your surgery. They will be happy to help you through every step of the process.

 

Conclusion


An angioplasty is a medical procedure used to improve blood flow through narrowed or blocked arteries. Stents are devices that are inserted during angioplasty to help keep the arteries open. While angioplasty and stenting can be effective treatments for narrowing or blockages of the arteries, they are not without risk. As with any medical procedure, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor by booking an in-person appointment before deciding if angioplasty or stenting is right for you.

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