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Heart Stent Complications

A stent is used to open arteries so that blockages will not occur as a result of conditions such as atherosclerosis. Stents are tiny metal coils that may be coated with medication, that also helps keep arteries open. Stents are placed in the heart through a heart catheterization procedure.

  1. Blood Clots

    • Blood clots are a possible complication associated with stents and continue to be a risk for several months after the procedure. Clots can lead to a heart attack, though precautions such as taking aspirin or Plavix can help prevent clot formation.

    Bleeding

    • Sometimes hemorrhaging may occur from the veins that were used for catheter insertion. In severe cases, blood transfusions may be needed because of excessive blood loss.

    Other Complications

    • Other complications that can occur during a stent procedure include artery damage, stroke, heart attack, arrhythmia and kidney problems as a result of reactions to the dye used during the procedure.

    Time Frame

    • A stent procedure usually requires a one-day hospital stay, and patients can usually return to work about a week later.

    Considerations

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, stents may not always be the best option. Those patients who have weak heart muscles or a narrowed artery on the left side of the heart may need bypass surgery.

    Warning

    • Contact a doctor if any of the following occurs following a stent procedure: bleeding or severe pain from the catheter site, fever, weakness, chest pain, breathing difficulties or if the leg used for the catheter feels as if it is a cooler temperature than the other leg.

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