seppelvaltimointi

Seppelvaltimointi, also known as stent implantation, is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to treat narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. This technique involves the insertion of a small, expandable tube called a stent into the affected artery to restore and maintain blood flow to the heart muscle.

The procedure typically begins with the insertion of a catheter through a blood vessel, usually in the groin or wrist, which is then guided to the coronary arteries under X-ray imaging. Once in position, a balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated to widen the narrowed section of the artery. In most cases, a stent—often made of metal and sometimes coated with medication—is mounted on the balloon. When the balloon is inflated, the stent expands, pressing against the artery walls and preventing re-narrowing. The balloon is then deflated and removed, leaving the stent in place to support the artery’s structure.

Seppelvaltimointi is commonly performed for patients with coronary artery disease who experience symptoms such as angina or who have had a heart attack. The procedure can quickly improve blood flow, alleviate symptoms, and reduce the risk of further cardiac events. Modern stents, including drug-eluting stents, have significantly decreased rates of restenosis (re-narrowing of the artery).

Risks associated with seppelvaltimointi include bleeding, blood vessel damage, blood clots, and allergic reactions to contrast agents. Post-procedure, patients often require anticoagulant medication and lifestyle modifications to optimize long-term outcomes. The procedure is considered safe and effective and is a standard treatment for coronary artery disease across many healthcare settings.