Do Stents Help with PAD?

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition that narrows the arteries, reducing blood flow to the limbs, often leading to pain, mobility issues, and severe complications like amputation if untreated. 

One of the minimally invasive treatments used for PAD is a stent placement. But how do stents work, and are they effective? Let’s explore these questions in detail.

What Are Stents?

Stents are small, mesh-like tubes made of metal or synthetic materials. They are designed to hold open narrowed or blocked blood vessels, ensuring a steady blood flow. For PAD, stents are used to reopen arteries in the legs, where blockages caused by fatty deposits (atherosclerosis) can lead to symptoms such as leg pain or cramping. 

How Do Stents Help With PAD?

Stents help treat the effects of PAD by improving blood flow in affected arteries. When a blood vessel becomes narrowed due to plaque buildup, oxygen-rich blood cannot reach the surrounding tissues. This restricted blood flow can cause symptoms such as claudication (pain when walking) or, in severe cases, critical limb ischemia, which may lead to amputation.

When Are Stents Used?

Stents are typically used when patients have severe artery blockages in the legs and when lifestyle changes and medications fail to manage PAD symptoms effectively. They are often considered in the following scenarios:

• Severe Narrowing or Blockage: Stents may be necessary when an artery is severely narrowed or blocked, and blood flow is critically compromised.
• Failure of Other Treatments: If treatments like exercise therapy or medications don’t relieve symptoms, doctors may recommend stents.
• Critical Limb Ischemia: When your blood flow is poor in your legs and puts your limbs at risk, stents can make a big difference, preventing amputation and even saving your life. 
• Complications from PAD: Stents may also be used to address ulcers or wounds that won’t heal due to poor circulation.

How Are Stents Placed?

A stent placement is a minimally invasive procedure commonly performed during an angioplasty. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the process:

• Preparation: The patient is administered with local anesthesia, and a small incision is made, typically in the groin, to access the artery.
• Catheter Insertion: A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into the artery and guided to the site of the blockage using imaging technology.
• Balloon Inflation: A small balloon attached to the catheter is inflated at the site of the blockage, compressing the plaque against the artery walls and creating space for the stent.
• Stent Deployment: The stent, mounted on the balloon or catheter, is expanded and positioned in the artery to hold it open.
• Balloon Removal: Once the stent is in place, the balloon is deflated and removed, leaving the stent behind to maintain blood flow.

The procedure typically takes an hour, and most patients can return home within a day or two.

What to Expect After Stent Placement?

After the placement of a stent, patients can expect a period of recovery and adjustments to their treatment plan. Here’s what to expect:

• Short-Term Recovery: Most patients experience mild discomfort at the incision site, which resolves within a few days. Walking and light activities are often encouraged shortly after the procedure.
• Medications: Doctors typically prescribe blood-thinning medications like aspirin to prevent blood clots from forming around the stent.
• Symptom Relief: Many patients notice immediate improvement in their PAD symptoms, such as reduced pain or better walking ability.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Your doctor may schedule regular check-ups to monitor the stent and overall artery health.
• Lifestyle Changes: Your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and quitting smoking, to enhance the stent’s benefits.

What Are the Different Types of Stents?

There are several types of stents available to treat PAD, including: 

• Bare-Metal Stents: These stents are simple metal tubes that help keep blood vessels open. They are effective but may have a higher risk of re-narrowing (restenosis) over time due to scar tissue growth.
• Balloon-Expandable Stents: During an angioplasty procedure, these stents are expanded with a balloon catheter, making them ideal for larger arteries. Once positioned, they offer a firmer structure and reliable support.
• Drug-Eluting Stents: These stents are coated with medication that helps prevent the growth of scar tissue, reducing the risk of restenosis. They are typically used when there’s a higher chance of the artery re-closing after placement.
• Covered Stents: These stents are wrapped in a fabric-like material and are often used when the artery wall is weak or damaged.

How Long Do Stents for PAD Last?

Generally, stents are designed to provide long-term relief from PAD symptoms. A heart-healthy lifestyle, including a proper diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking, can significantly enhance the longevity of a stent by improving overall vascular health and reducing plaque buildup.

Patients with stents should also have regular follow-up appointments with their doctor to monitor the stent’s condition and overall artery health, helping to catch any potential issues early. Ultimately, while stents can provide significant relief, the duration of their effectiveness will depend on the type of stent, the patient’s health, and whether they make positive lifestyle changes.

Stent Placement at American Endovascular

Stents are vital in managing PAD. At American Endovascular, we offer stent placement with angioplasty procedures as a minimally invasive way to improve blood flow to your legs and feet. If you’re experiencing symptoms such as leg pain, cramping, or non-healing wounds, please contact us today to schedule an appointment!