Heart Stent Operation: A Comprehensive Overview of the Procedure
Heart stent operation is commonly used to treat narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. These arteries supply blood to the heart muscle. When they become narrowed due to cholesterol build-up or plaque, they restrict blood flow and can lead to chest pain or a heart attack. In such cases, doctors may recommend percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), known as angioplasty and stent placement.
Angioplasty involves using a small balloon to open a blocked artery. A tube called a stent is often placed in the artery to keep it open after the balloon is deflated and removed. This procedure is widely used in cases of coronary artery disease, which is a leading cause of death globally.
Stent placement improves blood flow to the heart and reduces the risk of future heart issues. This article breaks down the heart stent operation, what to expect before and after, and how it compares with other treatments. We will also look at estimated costs, risks, recovery tips, and when angioplasty is recommended.
What Is a Heart Stent?
A heart stent is a small mesh tube made of metal or plastic inserted into a coronary artery to keep it open. The goal is to restore and maintain blood flow after a blocked artery has reduced it. Stents or percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) are used during coronary angioplasty.
There are two main types of stents:
- Bare-metal stents: These provide physical support to the artery walls.
- Drug-eluting stents: These are coated with medication to prevent blood clots and restenosis (re-narrowing).
During an angioplasty procedure, a balloon is inflated inside the artery to push plaque against the artery walls. Once the artery is widened, the stent is inserted to keep it open.
This technique is preferred over open-heart surgeries like coronary artery bypass surgery for its minimally invasive approach and shorter recovery time. It is effective in treating chronic coronary disease and acute conditions like heart attacks.
Types of Heart Stents: Comparison
| Type of Stent | Material | Key Feature | Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bare-metal Stent | Stainless Steel | Physical support only | Low-risk of clotting patients |
| Drug-eluting Stent | Polymer Coated | Releases medication | High-risk patients, diabetic patients |
Patients with high risk of blood clots are usually prescribed drug-eluting stents along with blood thinning medicines. These help prevent blood clots forming inside the stent.
Stents may be used in emergency treatment for heart attacks or scheduled procedures in patients showing symptoms of narrowed or blocked arteries.
Why and When Is a Heart Stent Needed?
Doctors may recommend a heart stent operation when blood flow to the heart is significantly reduced due to blocked coronary arteries. Symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeat are often signs that intervention is needed.
The most common reason for this procedure is coronary artery disease. It causes the arteries to narrow and reduces the supply blood to the heart muscle. If untreated, it may lead to heart attack.
When is angioplasty recommended?
- Persistent chest pain (angina)
- Sudden heart attack
- Narrowed or blocked arteries found during coronary angiography
- Ineffective response to medications
Common Conditions That Lead to Stent Placement
| Condition | Cause | Typical Symptom | Treatment Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coronary Artery Disease | Plaque build-up | Chest pain, fatigue | Angioplasty and stent placement |
| Acute Heart Attack | Blood clot in artery | Chest pain, sweating | Emergency PCI |
| Chronic Coronary Disease | Long-term arterial narrowing | Shortness of breath | Drug-eluting stent placement |
It’s important to understand that angioplasty is a procedure, not a cure. Lifestyle changes, regular check-ups, and medications are still required.
Costs vary between hospitals, stent types, and patient condition. For instance, in India, the average heart stent price ranges from INR 70,000 to INR 2.5 lakh. These costs are estimates and may vary based on hospital infrastructure, stent quality, pre-existing conditions, and insurance coverage.
Preparing for a Heart Stent Procedure
Before coronary angioplasty, your healthcare provider will conduct tests like coronary angiography to assess the severity of the blockage. Blood tests and imaging are also done to ensure you’re fit for the procedure.
You may be advised to:
- Stop eating and drinking a few hours before surgery
- Stop certain medications, especially blood thinners
- Arrange for post-procedure transportation
Inform your doctor about allergies, especially when contrasting the dye used during the procedure. The stent is inserted using a flexible tube called a catheter, which is inserted through a blood vessel in the groin or wrist.
Patients are typically awake during the procedure. Local anesthesia and pain medicine are used at the catheter insertion site.
Also discussed during prep:
- Risks of angioplasty: bleeding, allergic reaction, restenosis
- Expected recovery time
- Long-term medication use (e.g., blood thinners)
Follow your doctor’s instructions strictly. Failure to prepare correctly may lead to complications or delays.
How Is the Heart Stent Procedure Performed?
Stent placement is a minimally invasive procedure that usually lasts 30–90 minutes. Here’s how it’s done:
- A thin tube called a catheter is inserted through a blood vessel.
- A balloon catheter is advanced to the blocked artery.
- The balloon is inflated to compress plaque against the artery walls.
- A stent is then placed to keep the artery open.
- The balloon is deflated and removed.
The whole process is done under imaging guidance. Some stents used today are called drug eluting stents that help prevent blood clots and restenosis.
After the procedure:
- You’ll be monitored for a few hours
- Pain at the catheter site may occur
- Medications will be given to prevent blood clots
Your doctor may use a pressure band or closure device at the catheter site. Once discharged, follow-up care is necessary.
Patients often ask about angioplasty vs. stent. Angioplasty refers to balloon inflation, while stenting involves a tube being inserted to keep the artery open.
Important tip: Always follow medical advice on what to avoid after a stent. This may include avoiding heavy lifting, smoking, and skipping medication.
Risks and Complications
Like any medical procedure, a heart stent operation carries some risk. Though the procedure is generally safe, complications can happen during or after stent placement.
The most common risks include bleeding, allergic reaction to contrast dye, irregular heartbeat, or formation of blood clot in the coronary arteries.
Common Risks of Heart Stent Operation
| Risk | Description | When It Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Bleeding | At catheter insertion site | During or after procedure |
| Blood Clots | May form inside the stent | Within first few months |
| Restenosis | Re-narrowing of the artery | Usually after 6–12 months |
| Irregular Heartbeat | Can happen due to irritation from catheter | During procedure |
| Allergic Reaction | To contrast dye or medications | During or soon after |
Patients who smoke, have diabetes, or have uncontrolled blood pressure may be at higher risk. If not managed early, a blocked artery can return even after stenting.
Some people may require additional treatment, such as coronary artery bypass surgery if restenosis occurs. While stents help restore proper blood flow, some patients experience side effects of angioplasty,y such as bruising, nausea, or fatigue.
Doctors usually prescribe blood thinners to prevent blood clots from forming after coronary artery stent placement. Stopping these medicines without medical advice increases the risk.
Drug eluting stents are used in most cases today to reduce the risk of restenosis. However, like all implants, there is still a chance of failure if post-procedure instructions are not followed.
These costs are estimates and may vary based on stent type, hospital category, location, and the presence of comorbidities such as chronic coronary disease or diabetes.
Recovery After a Heart Stent Operation
Recovery after a heart stent operation is usually fast, especially compared to coronary artery bypass surgery. Most people are discharged within 1–2 days after percutaneous coronary intervention.
At the hospital, you’ll be observed for:
- Bleeding at catheter insertion site
- Heart rhythm and blood pressure
- Allergic reaction to contrast dye or medication
Doctors prescribe blood thinning medicines to prevent blood clot inside the stent. It’s important to take all medications on time. Sudden withdrawal can lead to complications like heart attack or stroke.
Recovery at home involves gradually increasing activity and eating a heart healthy diet. You must avoid lifting heavy weights or intense workouts for at least 2 weeks. Ask your healthcare provider what to avoid after stent placement.
Post-Procedure Recovery Timeline
| Timeframe | Activity Level | Key Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| 1–3 Days | Rest, minimal activity | Avoid stairs, take medicines, watch for chest pain |
| 1 Week | Light walking, no lifting | Resume short walks, no alcohol or smoking |
| 2 Weeks | Resume light work | Discuss with doctor before driving or resuming work |
| 4–6 Weeks | Gradual return to normal routine | Cardiac rehab, continue heart healthy diet |
Patients may feel tired in the first few days. This is normal. If symptoms like chest pain or dizziness return, seek help.
Always attend follow-up appointments and share any side effects. Recovery also depends on how well blood pressure and sugar levels are controlled.
Long-Term Care and Lifestyle Changes
Even after a successful heart stent operation, long-term care is essential. A stent helps restore blood flow but does not cure coronary artery disease. If unhealthy habits continue, the risk of new blockages increases.
Doctors recommend making permanent lifestyle changes. This includes quitting smoking, regular exercise, and following a heart healthy diet. Managing stress and sleep also helps prevent further artery blockage.
Key components of long-term care:
- Take medications regularly (especially blood thinners)
- Attend all follow-up tests including coronary angiography if advised
- Keep blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol under control
If you had a drug eluting stent, your doctor may prescribe blood thinning medicines for 6–12 months.
Lifestyle Checklist After Stent Placement
| Change Needed | Why It’s Important | How to Achieve It |
|---|---|---|
| Quit Smoking | Reduces risk of blood clot | Use cessation therapy or nicotine patches |
| Regular Exercise | Maintains blood flow | Brisk walk 30 mins, 5 days/week |
| Diet Control | Lowers cholesterol | Avoid fried food, eat fruits, veggies |
| Stress Management | Prevents high blood pressure | Yoga, breathing exercises |
| Regular Check-Ups | Monitors heart and stent health | ECG, lipid profile, coronary angiography |
Ask your doctor when is angioplasty recommended again if symptoms return. A second procedure may be required in some patients with aggressive artery disease.
Success Rates and Outlook
Heart stent operations are successful in most cases. They improve blood supply to the heart and relieve symptoms like chest pain. The long-term outcome depends on age, overall health, and how well lifestyle changes are maintained.
More than 90% of coronary angioplasty procedures are successful. However, some patients may develop restenosis within a year. Using drug eluting stents and following clinical practice guidelines can lower this risk.
Stent failure may occur if:
- Blood thinners are stopped early
- Blood pressure or sugar levels stay uncontrolled
- There is a reaction to the stent material
If a stent closes up again, repeat coronary artery revascularization or coronary artery bypass surgery may be needed.
Patients who follow medical advice often have better long-term results. In most cases, stents last for life unless complications occur.
Heart stent price may differ widely based on:
- Type of stent (bare-metal vs. drug eluting)
- Surgeon’s fee and hospital charges
- Comorbidities and complication management
These are estimates only. Costs may vary significantly between urban and rural areas, government vs. private hospitals, or depending on whether health insurance is available.
Stronger Hearts Begin at SRM Global Hospitals.
A heart stent operation helps restore blood flow through narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. It is often done during a procedure called percutaneous coronary intervention. Most people recover quickly, but long-term success depends on healthy lifestyle choices, regular medication, and follow-up care.
While angioplasty and stent placement improve life quality and reduce chest pain, it does not mean heart disease is gone. Patients need to continue following clinical practice guidelines and take blood thinners to prevent blood clots.
Understand that approximate costs may vary based on hospital type, geographic location, stent category, and complications. Consult with SRM Global Hospitals – Consult Today!
If you or a loved one is facing coronary artery disease or has been advised a heart stent operation, SRM Global Hospitals is equipped with the best team and technology. Every step is handled with expertise, from coronary angiography to percutaneous coronary intervention.
Consult with SRM Global Hospitals today. Call now or visit the official website to book an appointment.
FAQs
1. Is a stent the same as a stunt in heart?
The correct term is stent, not stunt. A stent is a small mesh tube inserted into coronary arteries to keep them open after a blockage is cleared. It supports the artery walls and improves blood flow.
2. What is the cost of a heart stent operation in India?
Heart stent price in India ranges between INR 70,000 to INR 2.5 lakh. This includes angioplasty procedure, hospital stay, and medications. The cost may vary depending on hospital, stent type, and patient condition.
3. Can stents be removed after some time?
Stents are permanent. They stay inside the artery and support it; they are not removed. If the blockage reoccurs, doctors may perform another angioplasty or suggest bypass surgery.
4. Is there a difference between angioplasty and stent placement?
Yes. Angioplasty involves using a balloon to open an artery. Stent placement involves leaving behind a mesh tube to keep the artery open. Most cases include both.
5. Are there side effects of angioplasty I should watch for?
Side effects of angioplasty include bleeding, pain at catheter site, allergic reaction, or in rare cases, a heart attack. Always report new symptoms like chest pain or dizziness to your doctor.
