Stent
In one sentence
A stent is an expandable mesh scaffold placed inside a narrowed artery to hold it open, usually during angioplasty.
A stent is an expandable mesh scaffold placed inside a narrowed artery to hold it open, usually during angioplasty.
Why it matters
In heart attacks, stents restore blood flow within minutes and save heart muscle. In stable disease, the decision is more nuanced — symptoms, anatomy and medication response all weigh in.
Living with one
The medication that keeps a stent open — antiplatelet therapy — is not optional. Never stop it before any procedure without the cardiologist who placed the stent agreeing.
Patient education
Definitions explain terms; they do not interpret your individual results or replace a consultation.