Stent Procedure in Mobile, AL
What Is a Stent?
A stent is a small tube normally made of either metal or plastic that is used to keep a patient’s arteries open for proper flow of vital fluids. This device is permanently placed to prevent the artery from narrowing again in the future.
Blocked arteries are very dangerous, especially those that affect the heart. A blockage could easily lead to an aneurysm or stroke, which often results in death. These blockages are typically caused by a buildup of plaque, or by a blood clot.
Learn more about what you should expect during a stenting procedure at any of our 8 locations in the Mobile area when you call your preferred location directly. We have offices in Mobile, Saraland, Fairhope, Daphne, and Bay Minette, AL. Our interventional radiologists are all board-certified by the American Board of Radiology and have extensive experience performing safe and effective stenting procedures.
When Is a Stent Necessary?
As previously mentioned, stents are often used to treat heart conditions. In some cases, they may even be performed shortly after the patient has had a heart attack or stroke.
These helpful little devices can also be used in other areas of the body, like the:
- Ureters: A stent may be placed in one of the ureters to help urine travel from the kidneys to the bladder. This can be especially useful if the patient experiences frequent kidney stones.
- Bile ducts: The bile ducts allow bile to pass between the digestive organs like the liver and gallbladder. This bile is what gives our bodies the ability to process fats and other waste products.
- Bronchi: The airways of your lungs are known as bronchi, which when restricted, can lead to a wide variety of respiratory problems.
How Does Stenting Work?
Most stent placement procedures are minimally invasive, meaning that your doctor at Alabama Coastal Radiology, P.C. will be able to insert them using a few tiny incisions near the affected artery. Occasionally, your surgeon may also choose to utilize an imaging guide such as an endoscope or an angiogram to assist them in locating the blockage.
The Recovery Process
Because stenting is minimally invasive, it typically only requires a single overnight hospital stay. It is of course also advised for the patient to refrain from any strenuous activities for at least a week or two, depending upon their age and previous health history.
Other post-procedure recommendations include:
- Staying hydrated
- Taking all prescribed medications as directed (most of which will help to prevent blood clots from forming)
- Refraining from any heavy lifting or other intense activities until cleared by your doctor
Be sure to seek immediate medical attention if you experience chest pain, a fever, or swelling near the incision site(s). These may all be signs of more serious complications, which need to be addressed as soon as possible to prevent further damage.