Angina After Stent Placement: Causes & What to Expect

Angina is tightness in the chest caused by the narrowing of a coronary artery. This can lead to heart attacks. A stent procedure employs a wire mesh tube to prop open an artery during angioplasty.

Explanation

• During the procedure, the stent is collapsed and put over a balloon catheter. Then it is moved into the blockage and the balloon is inflated. This is when the stent expands.

Stable Angina

• Stable angina happens when the heart is working harder than normal. The heart may work harder after a surgery or procedure.

After Procedure

• After receiving the stent procedure, patients may be given a blood-thinning agent to prevent angina or blood clots.

Treatment

• There is no one treatment for angina after a stent procedure. The doctor may recommend a pain medication to help relieve the pain.

Warning

• Monitor the severity of the pain and seek medical advice if it worsens after a stent procedure.