Coronary stenting in Kent and London
Coronary stenting is a procedure carries out under local anaesthetic to improve blood supply to the heart and reduce symptoms of angina.
What is an coronary intervention? - When to see a cardiologist - Reasons for coronary stenting - Getting ready - On the day - Recovery - Complications
What is Coronary Intervention?
Coronary intervention, also known as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), is a non-surgical procedure that involves inserting a small mesh tube called a stent into a blocked artery. The stent holds the artery open, allowing blood to flow freely to the heart. PCI often uses a technique called balloon angioplasty, where a tiny balloon is inflated to widen the narrowed artery before the stent is placed.
Stenting is a key treatment for coronary artery disease, which is caused by a buildup of fatty deposits (plaque) in the arteries.
When to See a Cardiologist
A cardiologist can help diagnose whether symptoms are due to narrowings in the coronary arteries, and whether any narrowings are severe enough to require treatment with stents. Common symptoms of coronary artery disease include:
Persistent chest pain or pressure, especially during physical activity.
Shortness of breath.
Fatigue or dizziness.
People with a known history of heart disease or risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or smoking may warrant tests for angina even if symptoms are not entirely typical for the condition.
Early evaluation can help prevent serious complications such as heart attacks.
Reasons for Coronary Stenting
A cardiologist may recommend coronary stenting for several reasons:
To relieve angina:
When medications and lifestyle changes are insufficient to manage symptoms.
Following a heart attack:
To restore blood flow quickly and minimize heart damage.
To address significant blockages:
When diagnostic tests, such as an angiogram, reveal severe narrowing in the coronary arteries.
To prevent further complications:
In patients with stable coronary artery disease but high-risk plaques.
Getting Ready
Preparation for coronary stenting involves:
Medical evaluation: Your doctor will review your medical history, perform tests such as blood work, and potentially order a coronary angiogram to pinpoint blockages.
Medication adjustments: Patients are sometimes asked to stop certain medications before the procedure.
Fasting: Practice on this varies but most cardiologists prefer patients to be fasted for the procedure.
On The Day
The procedure is performed in a catheterization lab under local anesthesia:
A small incision is made in the wrist or groin to insert a thin tube (catheter) into the artery.
Using X-ray guidance, the catheter is navigated to the blocked artery.
A balloon is inflated to open the artery, and the stent is placed to keep it open.
The balloon is deflated and removed, leaving the stent in place.
The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes, and most patients are awake but comfortable.
Recovery
Patients are generally monitored for a few hours or overnight in the hospital after a coronary stenting procedure. Recovery usually involves:
Activity restrictions: Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a few days.
Medication: You’ll be prescribed blood thinners to prevent clots in the stent.
Follow-up care: Regular check-ups ensure the stent is functioning well.
Most patients can return to normal activities within a week.
Complications
Coronary stenting is generally safe, however some complications do occur. More common complications an include:
Bleeding or infection at the catheter site.
Blood clots forming in the stent.
Allergic reactions to the contrast dye.
Rarely, damage to the artery or surrounding heart tissue.
Prompt medical attention for symptoms such as severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or unusual swelling is critical.