Stentoperasjoner

Stentoperasjoner, also known as angioplasty or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), are medical procedures used to open narrowed or blocked arteries, most commonly in the heart. The primary goal is to restore blood flow to an organ or tissue that has been compromised by a blockage. This typically involves inserting a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into an artery, usually in the groin or arm, and guiding it to the site of the blockage.

Once the catheter is in position, a small balloon is inflated at the tip of the catheter. This balloon expands the artery and compresses the plaque that is causing the narrowing. In most cases, a small mesh tube called a stent is then deployed at the site of the blockage. The stent acts as a scaffold, holding the artery open and preventing it from narrowing again. Some stents are coated with medication (drug-eluting stents) that is slowly released to further reduce the risk of re-narrowing.

Stentoperasjoner are commonly performed to treat symptoms of coronary artery disease, such as angina (chest pain), and to treat acute myocardial infarction (heart attack). While generally considered safe, potential risks include bleeding, infection, blood clots, and damage to the artery. Recovery time varies depending on the individual and the complexity of the procedure, but many patients can resume normal activities within a few days to a couple of weeks. Regular follow-up with a cardiologist is essential after a stent operation.