postPCI

postPCI refers to the period following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), a medical procedure commonly known as angioplasty and stenting. This period is crucial for patient recovery and preventing long-term complications. Following a PCI, patients are typically monitored for a short period to assess immediate outcomes and ensure hemodynamic stability. Post-PCI care involves a comprehensive regimen designed to optimize the results of the intervention and reduce the risk of restenosis (re-narrowing of the treated artery) and stent thrombosis (blood clot formation within the stent).

A cornerstone of post-PCI management is antiplatelet therapy. Patients are usually prescribed dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT), typically involving aspirin and a P2Y12 inhibitor, for a specified duration. This medication is essential to prevent the formation of blood clots on the stent. The duration of DAPT can vary depending on the type of stent used (bare-metal or drug-eluting), the patient's clinical presentation (e.g., acute coronary syndrome or stable angina), and individual bleeding risk. Lifestyle modifications are also strongly encouraged, including smoking cessation, adopting a heart-healthy diet, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight. Regular follow-up appointments with a cardiologist are scheduled to monitor symptoms, assess adherence to medications, and evaluate overall cardiovascular health. Further investigations like stress tests or coronary angiography may be performed as needed to assess the long-term patency of the treated vessel and the status of the coronary arteries.