stenttausta

Stenttausta is a Finnish term referring to the practice of inserting a stent, a small expandable mesh tube, into a narrowed or blocked artery. This medical procedure is primarily used to treat atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up inside the arteries, restricting blood flow. When arteries supplying the heart muscle become narrowed, the procedure is known as coronary stenting. Similarly, stenting can be performed in arteries supplying the brain, kidneys, or limbs.

The procedure is typically performed in a catheterization laboratory. A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into an artery, usually in the groin or arm, and guided to the site of the blockage. A stent, mounted on a balloon catheter, is then advanced to the narrowed area. Once in position, the balloon is inflated, expanding the stent and pressing the plaque against the artery wall. The balloon is deflated and removed, leaving the expanded stent in place to keep the artery open. This helps to restore normal blood flow.

Stenttausta is a common and generally safe intervention, though potential risks include bleeding at the insertion site, blood clots forming within the stent, or damage to the artery. Patients typically require medication, such as antiplatelet drugs, to prevent clot formation after the procedure. The recovery period is usually short, with many patients able to return to normal activities within a few days.