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Introduction: building up of plaque in the wall of arteries that supply blood to the heart leads to the narrowing of the arteries, reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, and chest pain. Complete blockage of an artery that supplies blood to an area of the heart results in a heart attack.

What is coronary angioplasty?

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a non-surgical procedure performed through a small hole in the foot or hand artery. The blocked artery is opened by inflating a tiny balloon on the tip of the catheter.

Why is angioplasty performed on a coronary artery?   

Artery blockage can put you at risk of heart attack or death if you have a lot of chest pain and discomfort. In case of such conditions, it is essential to undergo angioplasty.

What is a stent? Stent is a metallic reticular tissue used to prevent the closing of the artery. Stents are normally applied for patients with high-grade (70-80%) stenosis. Over a third of patients undergoing a stent-free angioplasty experience a narrowed artery within months of the procedure, which is known as restenosis.

 

In recent years, new non-drug and drug-coated stents have been used to prevent restenosis. After placing the balloon catheter in the coronary artery, the stent presses against the wall and holds the artery open. The catheter is pulled out and the stent remains inside the coronary artery.

People with stents are given prescription of antiplatelet drugs, such as Plavix, to prevent blood clots in the stents.

Therefore, it is recommended that patients with any type of stent take antiplatelet drugs as prescribed by their physician to prevent this complication.

What precautions should be taken after discharge from hospital following angioplasty and stenting?

- Touch the artery perforation site for signs of a mass in the next two-three days and refer to the hospital in case of a lump.

- Expect to see some bruises at the perforation site, which is not concerning if there is no pain.

- Small drops of blood may appear in the patient's clothing. However, the patient must be transferred to the hospital with an ambulance in case of spurt of light blood from the wound.  During the transfer, the patient must be laid on his back on a flat surface and pressure must be applied to the upper part of the wound.

- It is recommended to take a lukewarm bath (30°C) two-three days after angioplasty. Avoid rubbing firmly over the perforation during the bath. 

- Avoid lifting heavy objects two-three days after angioplasty. Do not drive for seven days after angioplasty.

-No MRI is allowed without the approval of a specialist during the first four weeks after stenting.

-Patients receiving coronary stents must use one or several blood thinners.

Blood thinners such as Plavix and Aspirin reduce the possiblity of clot formation in the stent and artery occlusion.

Recent recommendations suggest taking 300 mg of Aspirin and continuing the daily use of 75 mg of Plavix for 6-12 months or longer after angioplasty.

Periodic blood tests are required due to possible side effects of Plavix.

It is important not to discontinue these drugs for any reason without consulting with a cardiologist.

Your family members might be at risk if you have a heart disease. Therefore, it is crucial to change your lifestyle to prevent a recurrent heart attack.

Keeping up a healthy lifestyle

Maintaining the blood pressure within normal range

Maintaining the blood glucose within normal range

Maintaining the blood cholesterol within normal range

Eating a healthy diet (low-fat, low-sodium and high in fruits and vegetables)

Quitting smoking

Performing regular physical activity at least three times a week for 20-30 minutes

Learn about your cardiovascular risk factors that need correction and educate your family members about these issues

Document number: MH/CC/PM/01

Issue date:  

Date of revision:  

Editing turn: 5

Musa  Ibe Jafar

Patient Education Committee

Source: Medline Pluse