Why is stent used?

A stent is a small, mesh-like tube that is used to prop open a blood vessel or other body passageway. It is typically made of metal, plastic, or fabric and is inserted using a minimally-invasive procedure.

Stents are used for a variety of purposes, including:

- To treat coronary artery disease (CAD), which is caused by a buildup of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. Stents can be used to open up the blocked arteries and improve blood flow to the heart.

- To treat peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is a narrowing of the arteries in the legs or arms. Stents can be used to open up the blocked arteries and improve blood flow to the limbs.

- To treat carotid artery disease (CAD), which is a narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the brain. Stents can be used to open up the blocked arteries and reduce the risk of stroke.

- To treat aortic aneurysm, which is a bulge in the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Stents can be used to reinforce the weakened area of the aorta and prevent it from rupturing.

- To treat esophageal stricture, which is a narrowing of the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. Stents can be used to open up the blocked esophagus and improve food passage.

- To treat bile duct stricture, which is a narrowing of the bile ducts, the tubes that carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine. Stents can be used to open up the blocked bile ducts and improve bile flow.

Stents are typically inserted during a minimally-invasive procedure, which means that only a small incision is needed. This allows for a faster recovery time and less pain than traditional surgical procedures.