WHAT IS ARTERIAL STENTING?

 

Arterial stenting is a minimally invasive procedure used to improve blood flow when an artery is narrowed. This helps to restore healthy blood flow. The stent is a wire mesh tube that is permanently placed in a newly opened artery to help keep it open.

WHY MIGHT I NEED ARTERIAL STENTING? You may need testing to treat conditions that narrow or block arteries and interrupt blood flow. These conditions include: • Narrowing of arteries due to build-up of cholesterol and other fatty deposits called plaques • Peripheral artery disease (PAD), a narrowing of the arteries in the legs or arms • Renal vascular hypertension, high blood pressure caused by a narrowing of the kidney arteries. Angioplasty and stenting may be used to help improve kidney function

WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF ARTERIAL STENTING?

 

• Bleeding, swelling caused by a collection of blood (hematoma), injury to nerves, or infection.

 

• Damage to an artery or an artery wall. This can cause blood clots, abnormal ballooning of the artery, or abnormal link between the artery and nearby vein.

 

• Temporary kidney failure. Please notify your provider if you have had recent imaging testing that included contrast, as this would increase your risk for kidney issues.

 

 

TELL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IF YOU:

 

• Are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Radiation exposure during pregnancy may lead to birth defects.

 

• Are allergic to or sensitive to any medications, contrast, latex, tape, or anesthetic medicines (local or general).

 

• Have kidney failure or other kidney problems. In some cases, the contrast can cause kidney failure. You are at higher risk for this if you take certain diabetes medicines. You may need to hold certain medications prior to the procedure.

 

• Are taking any medication that include prescriptions, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements.

 

• Have a bleeding disorder or take blood thinners, aspirin, or medications or supplements that affect blood clotting. These may have to be stopped prior to the procedure.

 

HOW DO I GET READY FOR ARTERIAL STENTING?

 

• You will need to have blood work prior to your procedure. You should receive an order from your physician.

 

• You will be asked not to eat after midnight prior to the procedure. You may have clear liquids 2 hours before your arrival time.

 

• Bring your insurance card and picture ID with you to the appointment. You may bring an adult guest with you.

 

• You will need a driver to your appointment. If you need transportation, please let the office know so that we can arrange it for you.

WHAT HAPPENS PRIOR TO ARTERIAL STENTING?

 

• You will read and sign your consent that gives your permission for the procedure to be performed. You will have the opportunity to ask your provider questions and have anything explained that you do not understand.

 

• You will be asked to remove any clothing or jewelry that may get in the way of the test. You will be given a gown to wear. You will be asked to empty your bladder prior to the test.

 

• An intravenous (IV) line will be started in your hand or arm. You will be connected to a monitor that records your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing.

 

• You may get medication to help you relax before the procedure.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING ARTERIAL STENTING?

 

Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) imaging is used to determine the size of the vessel and the length of the stent needed. Then, using image guidance, the balloon catheter is advanced through the artery to the site of the blockage or narrowing. The balloon is then inflated to deploy the stent in the specific site. The balloon is then deflated and removed.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER ARTERIAL STENTING? • You will be taken to the recovery room. A nurse will watch your vital signs and the access site(s). They will check the circulation and sensation in your extremities. • Depending on the closure device used, you will be discharged after a period of rest and no signs of bleeding. • You will be encouraged to drink water and fluids to help flush the contrast from your body. • You will receive written discharge instructions about returning to your daily activities and how to care for your bandage and incision site. AT HOME • Once home, you should watch the injection site for bleeding. A small bruise is normal. So is an occasional drop of blood at the site. • You should watch your arm or leg for changes in temperature, color, pain, numbness, tingling, or loss of movement. • Drink plenty of fluids to help the contrast leave your body. You may not be able to do any strenuous activities or take a bath or shower for a period of time after the procedure.

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