How Vascular Stenting and Balloon Angioplasty Work Together

Vascular stenting and balloon angioplasty are vital procedures that alleviate symptoms, like organ dysfunction, pain, and fatigue, for patients with vascular diseases like arterial blockages. These minimally invasive procedures are used rather than traditional open surgeries for better results.

Angioplasty leverages a balloon-tipped catheter to open the blocked blood vessels and regulate the flow of blood. The medical professional uses medical imaging, like live X-ray, to take the tube or catheter near the blockages. Once the balloon reaches the blockage, it will be aerated to widen the blood vessel and improve the flow of blood. But there is more to it. To learn more about balloon angioplasty and vascular stenting, keep reading the blog.

What is Vascular Stenting?

Vascular stents are small, expandable mesh catheters placed in an artery to keep it wide open post-angioplasty. The stent acts as a podium that offers structural support to the artery and noticeably lessens the risk of blocking again. Based on recent studies, using stents can minimize the chance of restenosis by keeping blood vessels open for a long time and improving arterial stability. Stents are also useful in treating other vascular conditions, including:

1. Carotid Artery Disease

The carotid artery provides blood flow to the brain. If there is a blockage in it, then there is a higher chance of a stroke. Using a stenting procedure in the carotid artery prevents blockages and strokes from occurring again.

2. Renal Artery Stenosis

Narrowed arteries that lead to the kidney might damage its function, but angioplasty and vascular stenting help in regulating the flow of blood.

3. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

Vascular stenting can be utilized to open arteries in body parts, like legs. This restores blood circulation and minimizes pain and mobility problems.

4. Intestinal Artery Disease

The intestinal artery limits the blood flow to your intestines, resulting in immense pain and digestive problems. Vascular stenting and balloon angioplasty reduce the symptoms.

What is Balloon Angioplasty?

Balloon angioplasty is a procedure that is designed specifically to open arteries that are narrowed or blocked. A catheter with a small balloon attached to its edge will be inserted into the damaged artery during the procedure. The balloon will be inflated, pushing plaque and fat deposits to the sides of the arterial wall. This helps in restoring the flow of blood through the artery.

Balloon angioplasty helps clear blockages in the blood vessels effectively. But it might cause narrowing again in the future, called restenosis. Vascular stenting can be used together with balloon angioplasty to prevent re-narrowing.

How Do Angioplasty and Stenting Work Together?

Angioplasty and stenting together offer an efficient solution to arterial blockages. Here is how the two techniques work together.

1) Blockage Access: A tube is put into a blood vessel, often through the wrist or groin, and leads to the blockage site.

2) Placing the Balloon and Stent: A balloon with an attached stent will be positioned in the artery that is narrowed.

3) Stretching the Artery: The balloon is filled, pressing the plaque against the arterial walls while stretching the stent at the same time.

4) Maintaining Arterial Support: At last, the balloon will be deflated and removed, and the stent stays in place, ensuring that the artery remains open wide and the blood flow is restored.

Both techniques help achieve prolonged success and reduce the risk of complications, including restenosis. The angioplasty with stenting benefits like preventing re-narrowing, restoring circulation, reducing symptoms, and being minimally invasive help improve quality of life and decrease long-term complications.

How Should One Get Ready For Angioplasty?

Angioplasty is a minimally invasive and common procedure that helps regulate the flow of blood in blocked or narrowed arteries. Getting ready in advance will lead you to a smooth and stress-free recovery.

Before angioplasty, your doctor might go through your medical history, current medications, and overall health condition. The best vascular surgery hospital in Coimbatore ensure proper preparation so that balloon angioplasty and vascular stenting deliver the best results. It’s important to pay close attention to all the medical advice given by your physician. To prepare for angioplasty, follow the steps below:

1. Fasting Guidelines: Usually, you should not drink or eat for at least six to eight hours before angioplasty.

2. Medication Review: Be sure to let the doctor know about diabetes drugs, blood thinners, or supplements, as adjustments might be needed.

3. Lifestyle Readiness: Quit alcohol, cut smoking, and maintain a diet that is heart-friendly.

4. Arrange Support: Have a friend or family member accompany you, since someone might need to take care of you afterward.

Conclusion

Vascular stenting and balloon angioplasty are closely interconnected techniques that are used to treat vascular conditions. Angioplasty helps open narrowed arteries, while stenting helps maintain the arteries and prevents restenosis. These procedures have revolutionized the treatments for vascular conditions, offering instant relief, boosting long-term results, and improving the quality of life for many patients globally.

As we all know that prevention is better than cure, it is essential for people with such conditions to visit the vascular surgery specialist in Coimbatore. Doing so will help them to determine if balloon angioplasty and vascular stenting are the most suitable for their particular condition.