Heart blockage is a pervasive and life-threatening condition that affects millions across the world. Despite continuous advancements in medical technology and treatments, the recurrence of heart blockage is one of the major concerns for patients with stent placement.
A coronary stent is placed to open blocked arteries and let blood flow to the heart muscle. With the stent placement, patients start feeling better within a few weeks with better energy. While in several cases, chest discomfort comes after the treatment.
This condition is known as post-angioplasty, which happens due to in-stent restenosis, new arterial blockages, or non-cardiac causes.
What are the Primary Reasons for Recurrence?
The common reason is that the lining of the artery grows too thick around the stent in 3 to 6 months after the procedure. Another reason is that a clot is formed in the stent due to stopping anti-clotting medication.
Coronary artery disease sometimes leads to new blocks in other parts of the artery. High-risk factors like smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, and uncontrolled hypertension increase the risk of recurrence.
Sometimes, incomplete expansion of the stent in the initial procedure can recur after stent placement.
What are the Risks and Symptoms of Restenosis?
The symptoms of restenosis are similar to the original symptoms of atherosclerosis, such as:
- Chest pain, heaviness, discomfort, aching, and squeezing
- Weakness
- Nausea
- Irregular heartbeat
Restenosis mainly occurs in 3-6 months after the stent placement, but sometimes it occurs years later.
What are the Latest Changes in Stent Placement?
The actual rate of stent restenosis varies based on multiple factors, including the type of stent used, patient characteristics, and the location of the stent in the body. The latest tech advancements have reduced the occurrence of restenosis in comparison to earlier generations of stents.
What are the best Treatment Options for Stent Restenosis?
Repeat angioplasty or PTA is a great treatment for stent restenosis. An implanted stent becomes narrowed due to reaccumulation of plaque within the stent. Stent restenosis can cause a reduction in blood flow. Some common symptoms of recurrent include shortness of breath and chest pain.
Just like the initial stent placement, the procedure is performed in repeat angioplasty. A catheter is threaded through an artery and guided to the site of the restenosis stent. The catheter includes a small inflatable balloon. Once positioned, the balloon is inflated, compressing the tissue against the artery walls and expanding the stent for better flow of blood. The purpose is to open the narrowed stent and restore blood flow.
How to Prevent Restenosis?
Here are some easy steps to prevent restenosis:
High lecholesterol means the buildup of plaque clogging your arteries. Control your cholesterol to avoid restenosis High blood pressure puts a strain on your arteries, heart, and kidneys. Focus on your blood pressure; maintain it in a healthy range. Stay active and exercise to live longer. Always eat healthy to prevent and reverse heart disease.
