Coronary Stents

Blockage and narrowing of arteries and veins cause many problems throughout the body. Plaque gathers to restrict blood flow, and the cardiologists at Stanislaus Cardiology have many options to restore the blood flow.

When removing blockages and opening narrowed blood vessels, a stent is usually placed to keep the vessel open and prevent a new blockage from forming. Stents are metal mesh tubes made to expand when placed inside a blood vessel during an angioplasty (or percutaneous coronary intervention). Stents are also used to treat heart attacks and reduce chest pain symptoms.

Coronary angioplasties and stent placements are done with local anesthesia and mild sedation in approximately one hour (unless more than one stent is needed). No major incisions are required. If coronary stents are an option, it is much less invasive than coronary artery bypass surgery. Recovery time is shorter, and there is less discomfort. To help prevent further blockage, a blood thinner is prescribed for one to 12 months. If scar tissue or plaque form around the stent (restenosis), placing another stent often solves the problem.

The first stents made were bare metal, but restenosis was found to be prevalent. New stents were developed that are coated with drugs to stop the re-narrowing (drug-eluting stents).

Stanislaus Cardiology is available to take new cardiac patients. Call 209-521-9661 for an appointment today.