Stents for Heart Blockages - Dr. Tanmai Yermal

Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, and coronary artery blockages are a significant contributor. Fortunately, modern medical advancements, such as stents, have revolutionized the treatment of heart blockages, improving patient outcomes. Dr. Tanmai Yermal, an experienced Interventional Cardiologist at Hridayam Health Care in Kharadi, Pune, specializes in advanced cardiac procedures, including stent placement, to restore proper blood flow to the heart.

What Are Stents?
A stent is a small, mesh-like tube inserted into a blocked artery to keep it open and ensure uninterrupted blood flow. These stents help prevent heart attacks, reduce symptoms of coronary artery disease (CAD), and improve overall heart function.

Types of Stents
There are several types of stents used in the treatment of heart blockages:

1. Bare-Metal Stents (BMS) – Made of metal and provide structural support to arteries without any medication.
2. Drug-Eluting Stents (DES) – Coated with medication to reduce the risk of re-narrowing (restenosis) of the artery.
3. Bioabsorbable Stents – Made of dissolvable material that gradually gets absorbed by the body, leaving the artery in its natural state.
4. Covered Stents (Stent Grafts) – Used for complex cases such as aneurysms or arterial ruptures.

Stent Placement Procedure
The procedure of inserting a stent, known as angioplasty or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), involves the following steps:

Preparation – The patient is given local anesthesia, and a catheter is inserted into an artery (typically in the wrist or groin).

1. Balloon Angioplasty – A balloon is inflated at the blockage site to widen the artery.
2. Stent Placement – A stent is positioned and expanded to keep the artery open.
3. Recovery – The catheter is removed, and the patient is monitored for a few hours or overnight before being discharged.

Benefits of Stents for Heart Blockages
Stents offer numerous benefits in the treatment of coronary artery disease, including:

• Restoration of Blood Flow – Keeps arteries open, ensuring a steady oxygen supply to the heart.
• Reduced Chest Pain (Angina) – Alleviates symptoms of blocked arteries, such as shortness of breath and chest discomfort.
• Minimally Invasive Procedure – Faster recovery compared to open-heart surgery.
• Prevention of Heart Attacks – Reduces the likelihood of future cardiac events.
• Improved Quality of Life – Enhances physical activity and overall well-being.

Post-Procedure Care and Lifestyle Changes
After a stent placement, patients are advised to follow these essential care guidelines:

• Medications – Take prescribed blood thinners and cholesterol-lowering drugs.
• Heart-Healthy Diet – Include more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
• Regular Exercise – Engage in moderate physical activity as recommended by the doctor.
• Quit Smoking – Smoking increases the risk of artery re-narrowing and heart disease.
• Regular Check-Ups – Follow up with Dr. Tanmai Yermal to monitor heart health and stent function.

Consult an Expert in Interventional Cardiology
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with coronary artery disease and may require a stent, consult Dr. Tanmai Yermal at Hridayam Health Care, Kharadi, Pune. With expertise in interventional cardiology, Dr. Yermal ensures precise diagnosis and the most advanced treatment options for optimal heart health.

To schedule a consultation, contact Hridayam Health Care today and take a proactive step towards a healthier heart.