A stent is a small metal coil or mesh tube that is placed in a narrowed artery through a catheter (a long, thin tube) to help improve blood flow to your heart. The stent permanently holds the passageway open and helps reduce the rate of restenosis, renarrowing of the artery.
During the surgical procedure, a long thin tube called a catheter is inserted into the artery. This is used to move instruments through the artery to put the stent in place. Here is information about the procedure.
Peripheral arterial angioplasty may be done to restore blood flow when you have a narrowed or blocked artery in your arm or leg. A stent may also be used to hold your artery open. Learn what to expect from this procedure.
