Cardiac Stent Placement: Procedure Steps and Recovery Period

Dr. Mohamed El-Gohamy, Consultant of Cardiology and Pulmonology, is a specialist in treating coronary artery disease and performing cardiac stent procedures using the latest catheterization techniques. This procedure helps open blocked arteries, restore blood flow to the heart muscle, and reduce the risk of heart attacks or angina.

What Is a Cardiac Stent?

A cardiac stent is a small mesh tube inserted into a narrowed or blocked coronary artery.
Dr. Mohamed El-Gohamy explains that the main goal of the stent is to keep the artery open permanently, improve circulation, relieve angina symptoms, and prevent future heart attacks.

When Is a Cardiac Stent Needed?

• When there is partial or complete blockage in a coronary artery

• In cases of persistent or recurrent angina

• Following an acute heart attack

• As part of a diagnostic heart catheterization

Dr. Mohamed El-Gohamy emphasizes that the decision to place a stent is made after careful evaluation through diagnostic angiography.

Steps of Cardiac Stent Placement

1. Local anesthesia at the groin or wrist area

2. Inserting a thin catheter through the artery into the heart

3. Injecting contrast dye to visualize the arteries under X-ray

4. Guiding a small balloon to the site of the blockage

5. Inflating the balloon to widen the artery and deploy the stent

6. Removing the catheter and closing the entry point

The procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes and does not require general anesthesia or open surgery. Dr. Mohamed El-Gohamy confirms it is generally a safe and quick intervention.

Recovery After Cardiac Stent Placement

• Discharge: Same day or the following day

• Home rest: 2 to 5 days

• Return to work: Within a week, depending on physical activity

• Follow-up visits: To monitor the effectiveness of the stent and medication adherence

• Medication: Especially antiplatelet drugs to prevent stent blockage

Dr. Mohamed El-Gohamy strongly advises strict adherence to medications and lifestyle changes to avoid future artery blockages.

Dr. Mohamed El-Gohamy’s Post-Stent Care Tips

• Quit smoking immediately

• Follow a heart-healthy diet

• Regularly monitor blood pressure and cholesterol

• Engage in light exercise after medical approval

• Maintain a healthy weight

Dr. Mohamed El-Gohamy stresses that these lifestyle adjustments significantly enhance the success of the procedure and protect the heart from future events.