Heart stent

Types of heart stents and their uses

There are different types of cardiac stents, each of which is suitable for specific conditions of patients. Choosing the right type of stent depends on several factors such as the patient's condition, the type and location of the narrowing of the arteries.

Dual Therapy Stent (DTS): Dual Therapy Stent is a combination of two types of treatment: a drug layer that prevents the recurrence of the artery and a covering layer that accelerates the natural healing process. These stents are used to reduce inflammation and improve vascular tissue after stent placement. DTS is actually a combination of drug-eluting and metallic stents to reduce the risk of re-occlusion.

Bioengineered stents: These types of stents are coated with antibodies and accelerate the natural healing process. These stents are designed to reduce immune reactions and prevent re-occlusion. Some bioengineered stents are also combined with drug-releasing agents to prevent the growth of abnormal tissue as well.

Bioresorbable Vascular Stent (BVS): BVS or Bioresorbable Vascular Scaffold is a type of stent that is absorbed by the body after opening the artery. These stents dissolve in the body after a few years and help restore the flexibility of the vessels. BVS is useful for patients who need a temporary solution.

Drug-eluting stents (DES): Drug-eluting stents gradually release drugs to prevent abnormal tissue growth. These drugs are anti-proliferative. DES is a good choice especially for patients at risk of arterial re-occlusion and is widely used.

All-metal stents (BMS): These types of stents remain permanently in the artery. This type of stent is drug-free and its main function is to keep the artery open. These stents are cheaper but carry the risk of ulceration and re-occlusion.

Who needs a heart stent?

Patients who need cardiac stents are more likely to have coronary artery stenosis or occlusion. That is, the arteries that bring oxygen-rich blood to the heart. Accumulation of fatty plaques, cholesterol and other substances in the walls of arteries can lead to reduced blood flow to the heart, chest pain (angina) or heart attack. Stents help keep these vessels open and improve blood flow. The use of cardiac stents is common for the following patients:

Patients with coronary artery disease (CAD): The most common people who need a stent are those who have chest pain or other heart symptoms due to blocked coronary arteries. By using a stent, you can open their artery and reduce the symptoms.

Patients with a history of heart attack: Heart attacks mostly occur due to complete or partial blockage of one or more arteries. In such cases, stenting can restore blood flow to the affected area and prevent further attacks.

Patients with unstable angina: These patients have chest pain that begins suddenly and does not respond to rest or medication. In these cases, stents help to improve blood flow and reduce the risk of heart attacks.

Patients who are not candidates for bypass surgery: In some cases when coronary artery bypass surgery is dangerous for the patient or is not performed for other reasons, stenting is proposed as a suitable alternative.

Also, patients with vascular stenosis after bypass surgery or patients who do not respond well to drug therapy may also need stents.

How a doctor diagnoses the use of cardiac stents

The diagnosis of the need to use a stent is made by a doctor based on detailed medical examinations and specialized tests. The first step in the diagnosis process is the clinical evaluation of the patient. The doctor makes a preliminary diagnosis according to the patient's symptoms such as chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, abnormal fatigue or symptoms of a heart attack. If the symptoms indicate a problem in the coronary arteries, more detailed investigations are performed.

One of the common methods for diagnosing vascular blockage is the cardiac stress test. In this method, the patient is subjected to physical activity or drugs that increase the heart rate and blood flow. This test helps the doctor see if there is enough blood flow to the heart. If an abnormality is observed, the next step is used to detect the blockage.

The most important diagnostic method by which the doctor decides to use a stent is coronary angiography. In this procedure, a thin catheter is inserted into the coronary arteries through the arteries of the leg or arm. Then, by injecting a contrast material, accurate images of the heart arteries are prepared. These images show the doctor which arteries are blocked and to what extent.

After evaluating the results of the angiography, the doctor decides whether stenting is appropriate. If the blockage is so severe that the blood flow is disturbed and the patient's symptoms are severe, a stent is used. This decision is made by considering the individual conditions of the patient such as age, history of heart disease and general condition.

هزینه های عمل استنت قلب و عوامل مؤثر و جزئیات

Several factors affect the cost of cardiac stents. These factors can include the following:

• Type of stent: Drug-eluting stents (DES) are more expensive than bare metal stents (BMS) because these stents have a drug-eluting coating designed to prevent reocclusion. Absorbable stents (BVS) are also more expensive due to their advanced technology and biocompatible materials.

• Technology and materials: Bio-absorbable stents made of more advanced materials cost more. These stents are more expensive than simple metal stents because of the more complex technology they have to absorb and improve artery function.
• Hospital costs: Hospital costs for angioplasty and stenting include operating room costs, medical equipment, nursing care, drugs and post-operative services. In different hospitals, these costs can be different.
• Medical costs and follow-ups: Medical consultations, pre-operative tests, post-operative drugs and periodical follow-ups after stenting can affect the overall cost of treatment.
• Geographical location: the cost of stenting can be different in different countries and even in different regions of the same country. The cost of healthcare services, doctors' wages and the facilities available in hospitals play a large role in the final price.
• Stent manufacturing company: The brand and name of the stent manufacturing company can also have a great impact on its price. Stents produced by reputable brands have a higher price.
• Insurance coverage: the type and amount of insurance coverage also affects the final cost of stenting. Some insurances do not cover the cost of more expensive stents or only cover a limited portion of the costs.

پوشش بیمه ای برای استنت قلب و اینکه چه چیزهایی را شامل می شود؟

Insurance generally covers the costs of the stenting procedure and the aftercare. This coverage can vary depending on the type of insurance and the specific circumstances of each person, but in general, the following are included in the heart stent insurance coverage:

Cost of surgery and hospital services: insurances cover costs related to hospitalization, operating room, doctor's fees and nursing costs and post-operative care.

Cost of stents and medical supplies: Many insurances cover the cost of stents, but the type of stent and its brand can affect the amount of insurance coverage. Drug-eluting stents are more expensive and some insurances may not cover their full cost.

Pre-operative tests and consultations: diagnostic tests such as angiography, echocardiography, blood tests and pre-operative medical consultations are covered by insurance.

Postoperative medications: Medications that a patient needs to take after heart stent surgery, including blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering medications, and anti-inflammatory medications, are typically covered by insurance. Also, drugs prescribed to prevent blood clots and complications after stenting are generally covered.

Post-operative follow-ups: Follow-up sessions, periodical tests and medical consultations after stenting are included in the insurance. These meetings are necessary to evaluate the performance of the stent and the general condition of the patient's heart.

Additional medical equipment and supplies: Some insurances may cover the cost of additional medical equipment such as catheters, injectable drugs, or other medical supplies used during the procedure.

هزینه‌های آنژیوپلاستی بسته به نوع عمل و شرایط بیمه ممکن است متفاوت باشد. در جدول زیر، هزینه‌ها به تفکیک آورده شده است:

مبلغ ذکر شده شامل یک پکیج کامل است که تمامی هزینه‌های مربوط به خدمات بیمارستان، بستری و مراقبت‌های پزشکی را پوشش می‌دهد. این پکیج شامل آزمایشات ضروری، داروهای مورد نیاز قبل و بعد از آنژیوپلاستی، و تمامی تجهیزات لازم برای انجام آنژیوگرافی و آنژیوپلاستی است. هدف ما ارائه بهترین خدمات درمانی با کیفیت بالا به بیماران است تا فرآیند درمان بدون نگرانی‌های مالی انجام شود. با انتخاب این پکیج، بیماران می‌توانند از خدمات جامع و بهینه بهره‌مند شوند و آسودگی خاطر داشته باشند.

Cardiac stent preoperative measures

The measures required for heart stent operation strictly include three main stages: preoperative preparation, stenting procedure, and post-operative care. In order to prepare before the operation, the following points should be observed:

Medical consultation and evaluation of the patient's condition: Before the operation, the doctor examines the patient's medical history, medications, and the general condition of the patient. If the patient is taking medications such as blood thinners (such as warfarin or aspirin), the doctor may stop or change them temporarily.

Pre-operative tests: To assess the health of the heart, various tests are performed, including electrocardiogram (ECG), blood tests, and in certain cases, echocardiography (stress test).

Physical preparation: The patient may be required to fast before the operation. In this case, the patient should refrain from eating and drinking.

Cardiac stent post-operative care

After stenting, in order to improve treatment results and reduce complications and recovery period, it is necessary to observe several points:

Short-term hospitalization: After the operation, the patient is monitored for a few hours to overnight to check his vital signs and heart condition.

Rest and movement restrictions: The patient should avoid heavy activities for a few days. It is also recommended to avoid driving and lifting heavy objects for a few days after the operation.

Medications: Regular use of blood thinners such as aspirin or clopidogrel is necessary to prevent blood clots from forming on the stent. These drugs should be taken according to the doctor's prescription and for the prescribed period.

Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking, controlling cholesterol and blood pressure, and following a healthy diet are essential measures to improve long-term stent results.

Proper diet after heart stent operation

Adhering to a proper diet plays an important role in recovery and prevention of recurrence of heart problems. The purpose of this diet is to reduce heart pressure, improve blood vessels, control cholesterol and blood pressure, and prevent blood clots. The key components of a healthy diet are:

Reducing consumption of unhealthy fats: consumption of saturated fats such as meat fat, butter, cream, cheese and solid oil should be avoided. Also, trans fats in processed foods such as margarine, fast food, and cakes and sweets are very harmful.

Consumption of healthy fats: To reduce cholesterol levels, unsaturated fats such as olive oil, canola oil, avocado and nuts such as almonds and walnuts should be consumed. Omega-3 fatty acids are also found in sardines, tuna and salmon and oily fish and should be consumed two to three times a week.

Increase fiber consumption: whole grains such as oats, whole grain bread and brown rice to reduce cholesterol and control blood sugar, vegetables and fruits in the amount of 5 to 7 units per day and legumes, promote heart health.

Reduce salt consumption: excessive salt consumption causes high blood pressure. It is recommended to reduce salt consumption to less than 5 grams per day.

Healthy protein consumption: Proteins such as skinless chicken, fish, eggs and low-fat dairy products are low-fat proteins. Vegetable protein such as tofu, soybeans and legumes are also useful.

Avoid simple and processed sugars: You should avoid sugary drinks, desserts, and sweets because they cause type 2 diabetes and weight gain, which is bad for the heart.

Adequate fluid intake: about 6 to 8 glasses of water per day to provide hydration helps to improve heart function.

Limitation of alcohol consumption: Alcohol consumption should be minimized. The recommended daily intake is 1 unit per day for women and 2 units per day for men.

Food volume control: smaller and multiple meals are better than large meals and help improve digestion and reduce pressure on the heart.

The process of heart stent placement

The process of stenting is done step by step and carefully. In this process, the doctor uses minimally invasive techniques to open the blocked artery and place the stent. These steps are as follows:

• Local anesthesia and sedation: the doctor numbs the area from which the catheter enters the body (groin or arm). Some patients may need sedatives or anti-anxiety medications to feel comfortable.

• Catheter insertion: The doctor inserts a long, thin catheter into the body through a major artery. This catheter is directed into the coronary arteries where the blockage is. This process is performed under the supervision of radiographic images (angiography).

• Angiography: After the catheter is inserted, a contrast material is injected through it to obtain accurate images of the condition of the arteries. These images help to determine the exact location of the blockage and the degree of blockage of the arteries.

• Using a balloon and opening the artery: After identifying the blockage, the doctor directs a small balloon on the catheter to the blockage. Then, the balloon is slowly inflated to open the artery and compress the plaque or fat build-up in the artery wall. This step temporarily opens the artery and improves blood flow.

• Placement of the stent: After opening the artery with the balloon, the metal stent that is compressed on the balloon is moved to the site of the blockage. When the balloon is inflated, the stent adheres to the artery wall and holds it in the open position.

• Decompression and catheter removal: After stent placement, the balloon is deflated and the catheter is removed along with the balloon. Now the artery is kept open permanently.

The role of cardiac stent in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases

Stents play an essential role in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. They help open blocked arteries, prevent re-occlusion, reduce symptoms and improve patients' quality of life. Stents are used for various procedures:

B. from keeping the arteries: after angioplasty, stents are placed in the arteries to keep them open. Without a stent, the arteries may become blocked again, but the stent helps keep the artery open and improves blood flow to the heart.

Preventing re-occlusion: One of the main challenges in the treatment of vascular diseases is the recurrence of occlusion after angioplasty. Stents, especially drug-eluting stents, release drugs that prevent tissue and plaque from growing back at the site of the blockage.

Reducing symptoms and improving the quality of life: Stents can significantly reduce the symptoms of patients with cardiovascular diseases, such as chest pain and shortness of breath, and improve the patient's quality of life. This symptom improvement is visible after the stenting operation.

Prevention of heart attacks: In patients with severe blockages in the coronary arteries, the use of stents can prevent heart attacks. These stents provide sufficient blood flow to the heart muscle and prevent serious damage to the heart.

Alternative to bypass surgery: In some cases, the use of stents is suggested as a minimally invasive alternative to coronary artery bypass surgery. For patients who do not have the conditions for surgery or do not want to undergo surgery, stenting is an effective solution.

Advantages and disadvantages of cardiac stents

Stenting is a minimally invasive treatment method. Like all treatment methods, stenting also has various advantages and disadvantages, which are described below:

Benefits

This method does not require surgery and has little invasiveness and recovery time. Stents also help improve blood flow quickly. Besides these, it also reduces the symptoms and improves the patient's quality of life. Stenting can also prevent heart attacks.

Disadvantages

In stenting, there are complications like all treatment methods. The risk of reocclusion is particularly high among patients using simple stents. Improper use of medications can also lead to bleeding or clotting. In some cases, the stent damages the artery and its high cost may be a problem for patients.

Medicated or non-medicated heart stent, which one is better?

DRUG-ELUTING STENTS (DES) REDUCE THE RISK OF RE-OCCLUSION OF THE ARTERY DUE TO THEIR MEDICINAL PROPERTIES AND ARE MORE EFFECTIVE IN THE LONG TERM. HOWEVER, THEY ARE MORE EXPENSIVE AND REQUIRE LONG-TERM MEDICAL CARE. IN CONTRAST, NON-DRUG-ELUTING STENTS (BMS) ARE LESS EXPENSIVE AND MORE SUITABLE FOR PATIENTS WHO DO NOT WANT TO USE LONG-TERM DRUGS, BUT HAVE A HIGHER RISK OF RE-OCCLUSION.

Drug-eluting stents (DES): The surface of these stents is covered with drugs. Drugs such as paclitaxel or silardol are slowly released from the surface of the stent and prevent blockage. The risk of occlusion is lower in this stent. Also, patients who use drug-eluting stents need to use blood-thinning drugs for a long time, which helps the stent stay open. These stents cause faster recovery and have a higher cost.

Non-medicated stent (BMS): There is no special drug on the surface of these stents and they only perform the operation of opening the artery. These stents have a higher risk of reocclusion of the artery. For these stents, the use of diluting drugs is sufficient in the short term, but the risk of reocclusion is still high. For this reason, more treatments may be needed to prevent the blockage. Also, these stents are cheaper and more affordable.

Possible complications of heart stent and how to manage it

Complications of cardiac stenting, although rare, can be serious. However, most of these problems can be managed with careful medical care and prevention of preoperative complications. Regular use of medications, regular medical follow-ups and compliance with doctor's orders can prevent many of these complications and help patients recover faster. Here, the possible complications of cardiac stents and how to manage them are detailed:

Re-obstruction: One of the most common complications is re-obstruction. If drug-eluting stents are not used, angioplasty or stenting may be needed in the future.

Blood clots: Stents can cause blood clots, to prevent this, anticoagulants should be used.

Bleeding: There is a risk of internal or external bleeding, especially at the catheter insertion site, due to the use of diluents.

Infection: Due to improper health care, infection may occur. It is necessary to use antibiotics before and after the operation.

Damage to the artery during the operation: the catheter may damage the wall of the artery. In this case, the artery is repaired using different techniques or surgical interventions.

Artery perforation: An artery may be punctured during catheter insertion. In this case, bleeding is prevented with surgery or bypass or arterial tape.

Pulmonary and cardiac complications: As a result of stenting or taking drugs, pulmonary and cardiac problems may occur for the patient. In this case, the doctor prescribes anti-arrhythmic or respiratory drugs.

Inflammation or pain at the stent site: In case of inflammation caused by stent placement, anti-inflammatory drugs can be used.

Damage to the heart tissue: In rare cases, the stent may damage the heart tissue. In this case, immediate care and anti-coagulant drugs and in serious cases, surgery to repair the heart tissue are done.

What are the common side effects after cardiac stent surgery?

After cardiac stenting, some side effects and temporary symptoms may be observed. These complications are due to the procedure, the use of drugs, or the body's reaction to the stent and its drugs. Here are the most important side effects after the operation:

• Pain and tenderness at the catheter insertion site

• Bleeding or bruising at the catheter insertion site

• Fatigue and physical weakness

• Pain in the chest area

• Shortness of breath

• Nausea and digestive problems

• Swelling and inflammation of hands or feet

• mild fever

• Changes in blood pressure

Positive and negative effects of heart stent in daily life

Cardiac stent is one of the effective methods in the treatment of vascular diseases, which helps to open blocked arteries and improve blood flow to the heart. This procedure is performed for patients who suffer from angina pectoris or a heart attack and the blockage of the arteries has affected their daily life. Cardiac stenting can have many positive and negative effects on patients' daily lives.

Positive effects of cardiac stents

Reduction of chest pain (angina): Many patients notice a reduction in chest pain and breathing problems after stenting. In this way, they can do their daily activities without pain or shortness of breath.

Improving the quality of life: With the return of blood flow to the heart, the patient's energy level increases and he is able to perform daily physical activities. This results in a significant improvement in quality of life and overall sense of well-being.

Increasing physical activity: After stenting, patients can gradually increase their physical activity. This means walking, biking, and even light sports that help improve heart health and reduce the risk of heart problems.

Reducing anxiety and stress: Heart diseases are associated with stress and anxiety. Stenting can reduce these concerns and make the patient feel more secure and comfortable.

Feeling empowered again: After stenting, many patients feel that they are able to do their daily tasks and social activities again, which increases their self-confidence.

Negative effects of cardiac stents

Need for long-term medications: After stenting, patients need to take blood thinners and anticoagulants for a long time. This can bring certain risks, such as bleeding, and limit daily activities.

Physical limitations during the recovery period: Although stenting causes a significant improvement in physical abilities, in the short period after the operation, the patient should avoid heavy activities and intense sports. These limitations can disrupt daily life at first.

Risk of side effects: Stenting may result in complications such as restenosis (re-occlusion of the artery) or blood clots, which require additional treatments and special care. These problems may rekindle the patient's anxiety and worry.

Regular medical care: Patients with cardiac stents require regular medical follow-ups, periodic tests, and lifestyle changes. This can cause additional pressure and stress on the patient.

Lifestyle changes: To maintain heart health, the patient may have to make changes in diet, lifestyle, and stress reduction. These changes may be difficult at first, but they are necessary to maintain a healthy heart.

Factors affecting the success of heart stent operation

The success of cardiac stent operation depends on several factors, including the patient's physical condition and the method of performing the operation and aftercare. Here, we have comprehensively addressed the factors affecting the success of heart stent surgery:

Choosing the right patient: Choosing the right patient is important. Patients who have severe narrowing of the coronary arteries and the drug has not responded to them, are good candidates for stenting. People with underlying diseases such as diabetes, vascular diseases, or coagulation disorders with more complex heart problems need a more detailed evaluation.

Experience and skill of the doctor: The skill and experience of the surgeon play a key role in the success of the cardiac stent operation. The doctor must be able to accurately diagnose the location of the blockage and place the stent in the right place. Also, the management of intraoperative complications such as re-occlusion or catheter-related problems also affects the final success.

Type of stent: The type of stent used also affects the success of the operation. In general, drug-eluting stents (DES) designed with a special drug coating prevent tissue regrowth and arterial occlusion and perform better in the long term than bare metal stents (BMS).

Use of advanced techniques: The use of advanced technologies such as high-quality angiography, pressure measurement (FFR) and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) helps the doctor to identify and measure the exact location of the blockage. These techniques can increase the accuracy of stenting and prevent complications.

Following the doctor's instructions after the operation: The patient's strict adherence to the doctor's instructions after the operation is one of the key factors for the success of the operation. This includes regular use of anticoagulants, changes in diet and increased physical activity. Failure to follow these tips can lead to the formation of blood clots at the stent site and serious problems such as heart attack.

Control of heart risk factors: The patient should regularly control heart risk factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and weight after the operation. Managing these factors with lifestyle modifications, a healthy diet and regular exercise can prevent re-clogging of arteries and other heart problems.

Emotional and psychological support: The success of heart stent operation is not limited to physical aspects only. Psychological support of the patient through family support and psychological counseling can help to recover faster and reduce stress. Psychological stressors can have negative effects on heart health, so managing them is very important.

Prevention of infection and post-operative complications: Prevention of catheter site infections and careful post-operative medical care are among the things that must be done carefully. This includes regular medical follow-ups to ensure that the stent is working properly and that there are no post-operative complications.

Recovery period after cardiac stent operation

The recovery period after heart stent operation includes various stages and the patient must take special care to avoid possible complications. In the following, we have given a detailed explanation of the expectations in this era:

The first days after the operation

In the first days after the operation, the patient may feel a slight pain in the chest or the catheter insertion site, which is relieved by rest and taking painkillers. During this period, the patient is closely monitored to control possible complications such as blood clots.

Medical care

Taking blood thinners is necessary to prevent clot formation at the stent site. These drugs should be taken accurately and regularly according to the doctor's prescription. In addition, cholesterol and blood pressure lowering medications are also prescribed to prevent reocclusion.

Physical activities and rehabilitation

The patient should gradually increase his physical activities. Walking and light activities are recommended in the early days. Cardiac rehabilitation programs that include controlled exercise and nutritional and stress counseling are helpful in getting back to normal more quickly.

Change in lifestyle

Lifestyle changes, including following a healthy diet, quitting smoking, and reducing stress are key factors in preventing heart problems in the future. The patient should avoid consuming saturated fats, salt and sugar and pay more attention to fruits and vegetables.

Catheter insertion site care

Care of the catheter insertion site is also important. This area should be kept clean and dry to prevent infection. Possible signs of infection, such as swelling, redness, or unusual pain, should be reported to a doctor immediately.

Medical follow-ups and periodical tests

Regular medical follow-ups are necessary to evaluate stent function and heart condition. Your doctor may order tests such as an echocardiogram or a stress test for a more detailed investigation. If you have any symptoms such as severe chest pain or shortness of breath, you should see a doctor immediately.

By strictly following the doctor's orders and properly managing risk factors, the patient can gradually return to his normal life and avoid serious complications.

Proper exercise regimen after cardiac stent placement

Exercise regimen after cardiac stent operation should be gradual and controlled so that the heart recovers without causing additional pressure. In the first days after the operation, light activities such as short walks are recommended. These walks should be gradually increased, but to the extent that the patient feels comfortable and does not get tired.

After a few weeks, the doctor recommends cardiac rehabilitation programs. These programs include gentle aerobic exercise such as brisk walking, light cycling or swimming, which help improve heart function. The intensity of exercises should be adjusted under the supervision of a doctor or rehabilitation specialist.

Stretching exercises and muscle strengthening are gradually added to the sports program. The patient should avoid vigorous activities and heavy lifting in order not to put pressure on the heart. Adequate rest between exercises and listening to the body is very important.

Continuous monitoring of cardiac symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness is essential. If these symptoms occur, exercise should be stopped and a doctor should be consulted. A balanced and controlled exercise regimen can help to recover faster and increase the quality of life .

Differences between angioplasty and cardiac stenting: a comprehensive comparison

Angioplasty and stenting are both treatment methods for coronary artery disease, but they have fundamental differences in how they are performed and their purpose.

Angioplasty, also known as (ballooning), is a procedure in which a catheter with a balloon at the end is guided through an artery in the thigh or wrist to the site of the arterial blockage. The balloon is then inflated at the narrowed artery to dilate the vessels and improve blood flow. This procedure can be done alone, or a stent may be used afterwards to stabilize the artery.

STENTING IS ACTUALLY A SUPPLEMENTARY STEP FOR ANGIOPLASTY. AFTER DILATING THE ARTERY WITH A BALLOON, THE DOCTOR MAY PLACE A STENT, WHICH IS A MESH METAL TUBE, IN THE NARROWED AREA. THE STENT HELPS KEEP THE ARTERY OPEN AND PREVENTS IT FROM BECOMING BLOCKED AGAIN. STENTS CAN BE DRUG-ELUTING (DES) OR BARE METAL (BMS). DRUG-ELUTING STENTS ARE SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED TO REDUCE THE RISK OF REOCCLUSION AFTER SURGERY.

In general, angioplasty accomplishes the primary goal by opening the artery, while stenting helps keep the artery open and prevent reocclusion. In many cases, both methods are performed simultaneously.

Technological advances in the field of cardiac stents

Technological advances in the field of cardiac stents in recent years have improved the performance and reduced the complications of these operations. These advances include the development of different types of stents, improved materials, and the use of new technologies to increase their effectiveness.

ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT DEVELOPMENTS IN THE FIELD OF DRUG-ELUTING STENTS (DES). DRUG-ELUTING STENTS ARE DESIGNED TO RELEASE MEDICATION TO PREVENT CLOTS FROM FORMING AND RE-BLOCKING ARTERIES. THESE TYPES OF STENTS ARE ESPECIALLY USED TO REDUCE THE RISK OF RE-NARROWING OF ARTERIES AFTER SURGERY. THE IMPROVEMENT OF DRUG COATINGS AND THE USE OF INNOVATIVE MATERIALS HAVE REDUCED SIDE EFFECTS SUCH AS INFLAMMATION AND BLOOD CLOTS.

BIODEGRADABLE OR ABSORBABLE STENTS (BVS) ARE ANOTHER IMPORTANT DEVELOPMENT. THESE STENTS ARE ABSORBED BY THE BODY AFTER A CERTAIN PERIOD OF TIME AND THERE IS NO NEED TO REMOVE THEM. THIS FEATURE CAN REDUCE RISKS SUCH AS LONG-TERM BLOOD CLOT FORMATION AND HELP IMPROVE VASCULAR FUNCTION.

In addition, new stents are designed using special and more flexible materials that allow better adaptation to the anatomy of the arteries. Also, advanced imaging technologies, such as angiography and echocardiography, allow doctors to check the exact location of the stent and its function better and achieve a better result.

Cardiac stent durability: what should we know?

The duration of cardiac stents depends on the type of stent and the individual condition of the patient. Bare metal stents (BMS) remain permanently in the artery, but in drug-eluting stents (DES) , drugs are released to prevent re-clogging of the arteries and these stents also remain in the body forever.

Drug-eluting stents (DES): These types of stents are permanently placed in the arteries, but their drug coating gradually wears off. Medicines released from the stent are designed to prevent clot formation and inflammation in the opened arteries. After a while, the stent stays completely in place, helping the artery stay open. These stents can stay in the body for a long time and forever.

Absorbable stents (BVS): these types of stents are absorbed from the body after a certain period of time (between 2 and 3 years). Because these stents are gradually absorbed, there is no need for the stent to remain in the artery, which can reduce risks such as long-term blood clot formation.

Maintenance and care: After stent placement, regular blood thinners are necessary to prevent blood clots and other side effects. Also, periodic evaluations and medical tests are recommended to evaluate the performance of stents and arteries.

Effect of environmental factors on cardiac stent efficiency

Environmental factors can have significant effects on cardiac stent performance. These factors include nutrition, exercise, smoking, air pollution, stress and other environmental conditions that can affect the function of the heart and arteries.

Nutrition: An incorrect and high-fat diet can increase cholesterol and blood pressure, which increases the risk of re-clogging of arteries. This issue can reduce the performance of the stent and return the narrowing of the arteries. On the other hand, proper nutrition with the consumption of fruits, vegetables and unsaturated fats can help improve stent performance.

Exercise: Regular and controlled exercise can help improve blood flow and heart health. Light exercise and walking can help strengthen artery walls and make stents work better, while physical inactivity can increase the risk of heart and arterial problems.

Smoking and alcohol consumption: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption have a negative effect on arteries and stent performance. Smoking causes vasoconstriction and increased inflammation, which can lead to blood clots and re-occlusion. Alcohol consumption may also increase blood pressure, which increases the risk of further complications.

Air pollution and stress: Air pollution can increase inflammation in arteries and reduce stent performance. Long-term stress can also increase blood pressure and damage the function of the heart and stent.

The effect of age on the choice of cardiac stent type: key considerations

The age of the patient can have a great influence on the choice of the type of cardiac stent. In older people, due to the natural changes in the structure of the arteries and the increased possibility of chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure, stent selection should be done more carefully. Elbow-eluting stents (DES) are more recommended for older patients because they effectively prevent reocclusion of arteries and reduce the risk of re-stenosis. This feature is important for elderly patients who may not be able to tolerate reoperation. Absorbable stents (BVS) are also suitable in some cases for older patients because they are absorbed from the body after some time and do not need to remain in the artery for a long time. This feature can reduce the risk of future problems such as the formation of blood clots. Bare metal stents (BMS) are less preferred in elderly patients because they are more likely to become reoccluded and require more postoperative treatments.

Specialist doctors: Who are involved in the process of cardiac stent operation?

The process of stenting is a multi-specialty process that requires the cooperation of the medical team. The key people involved in this process are:

Cardiologist: He is responsible for stenting. Cardiologists use angiography to identify the blockage or narrowing of the heart arteries and place stents in the affected arteries.

Anesthesiologist: responsible for anesthetizing the patient if total or local anesthesia is needed. He controls the level of consciousness of the patient during the operation.

Angiography Technician: Technicians who prepare and set up imaging equipment and catheters. They help the cardiologist to closely observe the arteries and guide the catheter.

Cardiac nurses: specialized nurses involved in patient preparation and post-operative care. They monitor the patient's condition and help perform the necessary tests.

Cardiac rehab specialists: After the operation, cardiac rehab helps the patient recover faster and return to daily activities.

The importance of medical follow-up after cardiac stent placement

Medical follow-ups after cardiac stent placement are very important because these tests continuously assess the health of the arteries and the function of the stent. Follow-ups include periodic tests, monitoring blood thinners, checking blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and possible signs of heart problems. These checks help prevent possible complications such as blood clots, re-clogging of arteries and other heart problems. Also, through medical consultations, the doctor can determine appropriate treatment plans and lifestyle modification for the patient and ensure long-term improvement of heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a cardiac stent?

A cardiac stent is a metal or biological tube used to keep open heart arteries that are narrowed or blocked. This stent is placed in the artery after angioplasty to improve blood flow to the heart.

Do I need to take medicine after stent placement?

Yes, after stenting, blood thinners and cholesterol-lowering drugs are prescribed to prevent blood clots and re-clogging of the arteries.

Can I do sports activities after stent placement?

Yes, but you should start as per your doctor's advice and after initial recovery. Light activities such as walking are recommended and vigorous exercise should be done after consulting a doctor.

How long does a cardiac stent last?

Stents remain permanently in the arteries, but the type of stent (metal, drug-eluting, absorbable) and the patient's condition can make an impact. Drug-eluting stents are particularly effective in preventing reocclusion.