What is Stent Treatment? Do We Need to Place a Stent Immediately?

“I’m having a heart attack—do I need a stent right away?”
When a patient having a heart attack arrives at the emergency room, this is often the first question. The answer depends on the situation. Let’s explain simply what a stent is, when it is necessary, and when it is not.

What is a stent?
A stent is a small, mesh-like metal cage placed in the heart’s arteries. When an artery is blocked or severely narrowed, a stent is inserted to keep it open. The stent presses against the artery wall, maintaining blood flow.

When is stent treatment necessary?

  • Heart attack (myocardial infarction): If an artery is suddenly blocked, emergency angioplasty and stent placement may be required to prevent further heart muscle damage.

  • Severe chest pain (angina): If tests show significant narrowing, a stent may be needed.

  • Certain aortic or brain vessel diseases: Special stents may be used (e.g., aortic stent, brain stent).

Does every blocked artery need a stent?
No. Not every narrowing requires a stent. If narrowing is not critical, medication may be sufficient. In some cases, bypass surgery may be more appropriate. The decision depends on the patient’s overall condition, the location of the narrowing, and the severity of symptoms.

How is a stent placed?

  • Usually performed under local anesthesia

  • A thin wire is inserted through the groin or wrist artery

  • The narrowed area is widened with a balloon, then a stent is placed

  • Patients are typically discharged after one day in the hospital

After stent placement:

  • Blood-thinning medications must be taken regularly

  • Risk factors like smoking, alcohol, high cholesterol, and stress must be avoided

  • Regular medical check-ups are essential

  • Healthy diet and exercise should become daily habits

Is a stent permanent?
Yes, once placed, a stent usually remains for life. However, arteries can narrow again, so stent placement is not the end of treatment but the start of a healthier lifestyle.

Conclusion: Stay calm and make informed decisions
Stents are life-saving but not always necessary. Instead of rushing to “put in a stent,” decisions should be based on a doctor’s recommendation and the severity of the condition. Proper diagnosis, timely intervention, and lifestyle changes are the keys to heart health.

OPENING HOURS

 

Week Days 9:00 – 18:00
Saturday 9:00 – 14:00
Sunday Closed

  + 30 210 984 6354

OFFICE LOCATION

Dimitros 2, Paleo Faliro, 175 62 Athens

Make An Appointment

Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam