Vascular Stenting

Overview

Vascular stenting is a minimally invasive procedure used to open narrowed or blocked blood vessels, helping restore proper blood flow. A small mesh tube called a stent is inserted into the affected artery or vein to keep it open. It is often used in patients with conditions like carotid artery disease, peripheral artery disease, or other forms of vascular blockage.

This procedure is an alternative to more invasive surgeries like bypass surgery and is known for its quicker recovery time and lower risk.

Why Vascular Stenting is Required?

To treat narrowed or blocked arteries caused by plaque buildup (atherosclerosis)

To prevent stroke, especially in patients undergoing carotid artery stenting procedure

To improve blood circulation in the legs in cases of peripheral vascular stenting

To relieve symptoms like chest pain, leg cramps, or dizziness caused by poor blood flow

When medications or lifestyle changes are not enough to manage the condition

In patients who are not suitable candidates for bypass surgery

Key Advantages of Vascular Stenting Treatment

Minimally invasive with no large incisions

Shorter hospital stay and faster recovery

Reduced risk of complications compared to traditional surgery

Effective in preventing stroke or heart attacks

Immediate relief from symptoms of blocked arteries

Often performed under local anesthesia

Can be repeated if needed in the future

Avoids the need for open surgery in many cases

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Vascular Stenting Treatment

Consult your doctor and provide your full medical history

You may need tests like angiography, ultrasound, or CT scans

Avoid blood-thinning medications if advised by your doctor

Fasting may be required for a few hours before the procedure

Arrange for someone to accompany you and take you home

Inform your doctor about allergies, especially to contrast dye or iodine

Discuss any ongoing heart, kidney, or bleeding issues

Wear loose, comfortable clothing on the day of the procedure

How Vascular Stenting Treatment is Performed?

A small incision is made, usually in the groin or wrist

A catheter is inserted and guided to the blocked vessel

Contrast dye is used to visualize the blockage

A balloon may be used to widen the vessel (angioplasty)

A stent (mesh tube) is placed to keep the vessel open

The catheter is removed, and the incision is closed with pressure or a small stitch

The entire vascular stenting procedure step by step typically takes 1–2 hours

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

1. Before Procedure:

You will undergo imaging tests

You may receive medication to relax

Your vital signs will be monitored

2. During Procedure:

Performed under local anesthesia

You may feel slight pressure or warmth

The team monitors your heart rate and blood pressure continuously

3. After Procedure:

You will be moved to a recovery room

You may need to lie flat for a few hours

Discharged the same day or next day depending on condition

Mild bruising or soreness at the insertion site is common

Resume normal activity within a few days

Risk and Potential Complications

Bleeding or bruising at the catheter site

Blood clots forming around the stent

Infection at the incision site

Allergic reaction to dye used during imaging

Re-narrowing of the artery (restenosis)

Kidney damage in rare cases due to contrast dye

Stroke or heart attack (though rare)

Not all patients respond equally – success varies with overall health

Results/Outcomes

Most patients experience immediate improvement in symptoms

High success rate of vascular stenting, especially for blocked arteries

Helps prevent severe events like stroke or limb loss

Vascular stenting recovery time is shorter than traditional surgery

Stents can last several years or even lifetime depending on health and lifestyle

Improved quality of life with proper post-procedure care and medication