Of course, I understand that any medical procedure can be a bit nerve-wracking. I'll do my best to explain the process of placing a coronary stent in simple terms, so you know what to expect.
A coronary stent is a small, tube-like device that's used to help open up a blocked or narrowed artery in your heart. This is done to improve blood flow and reduce the risk of a heart attack. The procedure to place a stent is called angioplasty.
Before the procedure, you'll be given a medication to help you relax, and a local anesthetic will be applied to numb the area where the catheter will be inserted. This is usually in your groin or wrist.
The doctor will make a small incision in the numbed area and insert a thin, flexible tube called a catheter. The catheter has a tiny deflated balloon on its tip, which will be used to help place the stent. Using special X-ray equipment and a contrast dye, the doctor will carefully guide the catheter through your blood vessels and into the coronary artery where the blockage is.
Once the catheter reaches the blockage, the balloon at its tip will be inflated to gently push the plaque (the fatty deposit causing the blockage) against the artery walls. This will create a wider passage for blood flow. The stent, which is wrapped around the deflated balloon, will expand as the balloon inflates. When the balloon is deflated and removed, the stent will stay in place, holding the artery open.
After the stent is in position, the doctor will remove the catheter and close the incision. The whole procedure typically takes about 1-2 hours. You may need to stay in the hospital for a short time after the procedure for observation, and you'll receive instructions on how to care for the incision site and when you can return to your normal activities.
It's important to remember that the medical team performing the procedure is well-trained and experienced in placing coronary stents. They'll be monitoring you closely throughout the process to ensure your safety and comfort. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare team. They're there to help and support you.