“How long does a stent last in your heart?”
I will get a heart stent. How long does a stent last in your heart?
2 Answers
Stents are permanent metal mesh that stays within the artery to hold the plaque against the wall. There are newer stents now that might be absorbable but they are not yet released to the market
The longevity of a stent in the heart can vary from person to person and depends on several factors. Here are some considerations:
1. **Type of Stent:** There are two main types of stents used in coronary angioplasty procedures: bare-metal stents (BMS) and drug-eluting stents (DES). DES are coated with medication that helps prevent the recurrence of blockages. DES tend to have a longer lifespan compared to BMS.
2. **Patient's Health:** The overall health of the patient plays a significant role. Patients who have a healthier lifestyle, control risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol, and adhere to medications and follow-up appointments tend to have better stent longevity.
3. **Location and Complexity of the Blockage:** The location of the stent and the complexity of the blockage can impact how long it lasts. Stents in larger coronary arteries may have a longer lifespan than those in smaller vessels. Complex lesions may have a higher risk of re-narrowing.
4. **Plaque Buildup:** Even with a stent in place, there can be gradual plaque buildup in the arteries over time. This is why lifestyle changes and medications are crucial to slow down this process.
5. **Medication Adherence:** If you're prescribed medications like antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin and clopidogrel) to prevent blood clots after stent placement, it's essential to take them as directed. Discontinuing these medications prematurely can increase the risk of stent thrombosis.
6. **Follow-Up Care:** Regular follow-up appointments with your cardiologist are essential to monitor the stent's condition and overall heart health. Your doctor may recommend additional procedures or interventions if needed.
In general, DES have been shown to have a lower risk of re-narrowing (restenosis) compared to BMS, and they can last for several years or even indefinitely in some cases. However, there is still a risk of late restenosis or stent thrombosis, especially if medications are not taken as prescribed or if there is underlying disease progression.
It's crucial to have open communication with your healthcare provider regarding your specific situation. They can provide guidance on stent care, lifestyle modifications, and ongoing management to optimize the longevity of the stent and reduce the risk of complications.
1. **Type of Stent:** There are two main types of stents used in coronary angioplasty procedures: bare-metal stents (BMS) and drug-eluting stents (DES). DES are coated with medication that helps prevent the recurrence of blockages. DES tend to have a longer lifespan compared to BMS.
2. **Patient's Health:** The overall health of the patient plays a significant role. Patients who have a healthier lifestyle, control risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol, and adhere to medications and follow-up appointments tend to have better stent longevity.
3. **Location and Complexity of the Blockage:** The location of the stent and the complexity of the blockage can impact how long it lasts. Stents in larger coronary arteries may have a longer lifespan than those in smaller vessels. Complex lesions may have a higher risk of re-narrowing.
4. **Plaque Buildup:** Even with a stent in place, there can be gradual plaque buildup in the arteries over time. This is why lifestyle changes and medications are crucial to slow down this process.
5. **Medication Adherence:** If you're prescribed medications like antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin and clopidogrel) to prevent blood clots after stent placement, it's essential to take them as directed. Discontinuing these medications prematurely can increase the risk of stent thrombosis.
6. **Follow-Up Care:** Regular follow-up appointments with your cardiologist are essential to monitor the stent's condition and overall heart health. Your doctor may recommend additional procedures or interventions if needed.
In general, DES have been shown to have a lower risk of re-narrowing (restenosis) compared to BMS, and they can last for several years or even indefinitely in some cases. However, there is still a risk of late restenosis or stent thrombosis, especially if medications are not taken as prescribed or if there is underlying disease progression.
It's crucial to have open communication with your healthcare provider regarding your specific situation. They can provide guidance on stent care, lifestyle modifications, and ongoing management to optimize the longevity of the stent and reduce the risk of complications.
