This content has been prepared for informational purposes to protect public health, in compliance with the regulations of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Turkey and medical ethical rules. It does not provide any diagnosis, treatment guarantees, or specific medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for the most accurate information.
A cardiac stent is a metal mesh structure placed to keep coronary arteries open after stenosis. It is widely used in the treatment of coronary artery disease. This comprehensive guide covers stent types, implantation procedure, and post-stent care in detail.
What is a Cardiac Stent?#
A cardiac stent is a cylindrical metal mesh that keeps the vessel open after balloon angioplasty. It adheres to the vessel wall and prevents recurrence of stenosis.
Stent Types:
- Bare metal stent (BMS)
- Drug-eluting stent (DES)
- Bioresorbable stent
Cardiac Stent Indications#
Acute Coronary Syndrome#
- ST-elevation myocardial infarction
- Non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction
- Unstable angina
Stable Coronary Artery Disease#
- Severe stenosis (>70%)
- Symptomatic patients
- Positive stress test
- Unresponsive to medical therapy
Stent Types#
Bare Metal Stent (BMS)#
- First generation stents
- Higher restenosis rate
- Short-term antiplatelet therapy
Drug-Eluting Stent (DES)#
- Antiproliferative drug coated
- Low restenosis rate
- Long-term antiplatelet therapy
- Current standard
Bioresorbable Stent#
- Structure that dissolves over time
- Vessel function preserved
- In selected patients
How is Stent Implantation Performed?#
Preparation#
- Evaluation with angiography
- Antiplatelet loading
- Hydration
Procedure Steps#
- Vascular access: Femoral or radial
- Guide catheter: To coronary ostium
- Guidewire: Through lesion
- Predilation: With balloon
- Stent placement: Over lesion
- Stent deployment: Balloon inflation
- Postdilation: If needed
- Control angiography: Result evaluation
Procedure Duration#
Total time: 30-90 minutes
Post-Stent Treatment#
Antiplatelet Therapy#
Dual Antiplatelet Therapy (DAPT):
- Aspirin + P2Y12 inhibitor
- Duration: 6-12 months (DES)
- Duration: 1-3 months (BMS)
Other Medications#
- Statin
- Beta blocker
- ACE inhibitor
- Nitrate (if needed)
Stent Complications#
Early Complications#
- Stent thrombosis
- Dissection
- Perforation
Late Complications#
- In-stent restenosis
- Late stent thrombosis
- Neoatherosclerosis
Frequently Asked Questions#
Is the stent permanent?
How long is medication required after stent?
Can I have MRI after stent?
Can I exercise after stent?
Can the stent become blocked?
Appointment and Contact#
To schedule an appointment for cardiac stent evaluation:
📍 Avrasya Hospital - Beştelsiz Mah. 101. Sokak No:107, Zeytinburnu, Istanbul
📞 Phone: +90 212 665 50 50 (Ext: 4012)
This content was prepared by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Habib Çil for general informational purposes. Please consult a cardiology specialist for definitive diagnosis and treatment.