A heart stent is an invasive procedure used to treat blocked blood vessels caused by conditions such as coronary artery disease. This procedure is usually performed using an imaging technique called angiography. During angiography, a catheter is advanced through the vein into the heart vessels and contrast material is injected to visualize the vessels in detail.

Stent placement involves inserting a stent, chosen depending on the location of the blockage, into the area of the narrowed vessel. The stent is usually mounted on a catheter with a balloon and once the narrowed area is reached, the balloon is inflated and the stent is placed in place. The balloon is then removed, but the stent remains embedded in the vessel wall, which allows the vessel to remain open. The stent can reduce the risk of heart attack by promoting vasodilation and regulating blood flow.

Stent placement is usually performed under local anesthesia and patients are usually discharged within a few hours. However, a specific assessment of the patient and the vasculature is important for the successful completion of the procedure. Every patient is different and a detailed evaluation should be performed prior to stent placement. This procedure is an effective treatment to alleviate the symptoms associated with cardiovascular disease and improve the patient’s quality of life.