Stentbeültetés

Stentbeültetés, often referred to as angioplasty with stenting, is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to open narrowed or blocked arteries. It is commonly employed to treat coronary artery disease, where plaque buildup within the arteries restricts blood flow to the heart. The procedure typically begins with a cardiologist or interventional radiologist inserting a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into a blood vessel, usually in the groin or arm. Guided by X-ray imaging, the catheter is advanced to the site of the blockage.

Once in position, a tiny balloon mounted on a wire is guided through the catheter and inflated at the narrowed area. This balloon angioplasty expands the artery, compressing the plaque against the artery walls and restoring blood flow. To keep the artery open, a small, expandable mesh tube called a stent is then deployed. The stent is usually compressed onto a balloon catheter, which is then inflated to expand the stent and secure it in place. After the stent is fully expanded, the balloon catheter is deflated and removed, leaving the stent permanently embedded in the artery.

Stentbeültetés is a widely used and generally safe procedure. It can significantly alleviate symptoms such as chest pain (angina) and shortness of breath, and reduce the risk of heart attack. Recovery is typically quick, with most patients able to return to normal activities within a few days to a week. Patients are usually prescribed medications, such as antiplatelet drugs, to prevent blood clots from forming on the stent.