Name of the Procedure:

Stent, coated/covered, without delivery system (C1875)

Summary

A stent is a small, tube-like device that is inserted into blood vessels or other pathways in the body to keep them open. This particular stent is coated or covered to provide added benefits, such as preventing blood clots or reducing tissue growth over it.

Purpose

The stent is used to treat narrowed or blocked blood vessels. It helps in conditions like arterial stenosis where blood flow is restricted. The goal is to improve blood flow and prevent complications such as heart attacks or strokes.

Indications

• Blocked or narrowed arteries due to atherosclerosis
• Certain types of aneurysms
• Re-occurring blockages after previous stenting (restenosis)
• Blood clot prevention in high-risk areas

Preparation

• Fasting for 6-8 hours before the procedure
• Blood tests and imaging studies like angiography or ultrasound
• Adjustments to current medications, especially blood thinners

Procedure Description

1. Under local or general anesthesia, a small incision is made in the skin.
2. A catheter is inserted into the blood vessel and navigated to the blockage site.
3. The coated stent is deployed using specialized tools.
4. The catheter is then removed, and the incision is closed.

Duration

Typically takes 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

Usually performed in a hospital, specifically in a cardiac catheterization lab or an interventional radiology suite.

Personnel

• Interventional Cardiologist or Vascular Surgeon
• Nurses
• Radiologic Technologist
• Anesthesiologist or Nurse Anesthetist

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the incision site
• Bleeding
• Blood clot formation
• Stent migration or misplacement
• Allergic reaction to the stent material or medications used

Benefits

• Improved blood flow to affected areas
• Reduction in symptoms such as chest pain (angina) or leg pain (claudication)
• Prevents future cardiovascular events like heart attack or stroke
• Benefits usually felt within days to weeks

Recovery

• Hospital stay of 1-2 days is common
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for a week
• Follow-up appointments for monitoring and any necessary adjustments
• Resume normal activities typically within a week

Alternatives

• Medication therapy (e.g., blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering drugs)
• Angioplasty without stent placement
• Bypass surgery, which is more invasive but may be more effective for severe cases
• Lifestyle changes including diet and exercise

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Minimal discomfort due to sedation or anesthesia
• Awareness of sensations without significant pain

After the Procedure:

• Mild pain or discomfort at the incision site
• Possible bruising and tenderness
• Pain management with prescribed medications

Comfort measures include gentle handling by the medical team and adequate pain relief strategies to ensure a smoother experience.