A heart attack is a scenario many of us fear, yet one that millions face due to coronary artery disease. Shockingly, in Singapore alone, cardiovascular disease claims the lives of 23 individuals every single day.
However, amidst these statistics, there is a glimmer of hope. Thanks to the advancement in medical procedures and cardiovascular care over the years, heart stenting treatment has become a solution in the battle against heart disease.
Keep reading to learn more about heart stenting treatment, including how it is done, what it is for, and the post-procedure journey.
What Is a Heart Stent?
The heart stent, though small in size, serves a vital role in maintaining open arteries. These arteries are responsible for transporting blood from the heart to organs and tissues throughout the body, including the heart muscle itself.
Most stents are made of mesh wire that is expandable and come in a tube shape. They are designed to reinforce and support the arterial walls, preventing them from collapsing or narrowing due to the buildup of plaque.
Once implanted, they become permanent and integral fixtures within the arterial network, providing enduring support and promoting optimal blood flow.
Read more: Debunking 4 Myths About Heart Disease Once and for All
How Is Heart Stenting Treatment Done?
Heart stenting is a meticulous procedure aimed at restoring blood flow through blocked arteries. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how it is done:
- Your heart specialist begins by inserting a small tube, usually into the artery in your wrist, although occasionally through the groin artery. This tube serves as a pathway for the placement of the stent.
- Through this initial tube, your heart specialist then threads a thin tube known as a catheter, which is carefully manoeuvred through the blood vessel until it reaches the site of the blocked artery.
- Once the catheter is in position, a balloon at its tip is inflated within the blocked artery. This widens the artery, creating space for blood to flow freely once again.
- With the artery now expanded, the stent, usually coated with medication to maintain artery openness, is inserted into the artery. The stent acts as a scaffold, holding the artery walls open and preventing them from collapsing.
- Once the stent is in place, the balloon is deflated and removed, leaving the stent securely implanted within the artery. Your heart specialist will ensure everything is in order before concluding the procedure.
Who Is Heart Stenting Treatment for?
The treatment is a vital intervention for individuals grappling with coronary artery disease or facing the risk of heart attacks due to narrowed arteries. It is often recommended for:
- Patients With Heart Disease: This procedure helps restore blood flow to the heart muscle, alleviating symptoms such as chest pain and reducing the risk of heart attacks.
- Patients at Risk of Heart Attacks: Individuals identified as being at high risk of heart attacks due to severe arterial blockages may undergo heart stenting as a preventive measure, as advised by a heart specialist.
- Individuals Experiencing Symptoms: Symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue may indicate compromised blood flow to the heart, and may benefit from heart stenting treatment.
- Patients Unsuitable for Other Treatments: In some cases, individuals may not be suitable candidates for alternative treatments and heart stenting serves as a minimally invasive alternative, particularly for those deemed high-risk for surgery.
Learn more: What Does a Heart Attack Feel Like?
What Is the Recovery Process Like?
The recovery process following heart stenting treatment can be straightforward with minimal disruptions as long as patients follow all post-procedure instructions. Here is what you can expect:
- Post-Procedure Care: You will be monitored for a brief period to ensure that you are well and to address any immediate concerns.
- Observation Period: You may be required to stay in the hospital overnight for observation.
- Medication: Your heart specialist may prescribe medications to support the healing process and prevent complications.
- Physical Activity: You will be encouraged to resume light physical activity but strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for a specified period.
- Follow-Up Appointments: You will be scheduled for follow-up appointments, which may include imaging tests to evaluate the condition of the arteries and ensure optimal blood flow.
- Lifestyle Modifications: You will be advised to adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle which includes adhering to a nutritious diet, engaging in regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing stress effectively.
A Clear Path to Heart Wellness
If you are considering heart stenting treatment, consult with Dr Leslie Tay, a heart specialist and cardiologist with a clinic located at Mount Elizabeth Novena.
Get in touch to find out more.
