Heart Stent Procedure: Benefits, What to Expect, and Recovery Tips

Oleh: dr. Beny Hartono, Sp.JP, Subsp. KI (K), FIHA, FAPSC - Spesialis Jantung dan Pembuluh Darah Subspesialis Aritmia dan Kardiologi Intervensi

The installation of a heart ring (also known as a heart stent) is a medical procedure performed to open narrowed or blocked coronary blood vessels.

Here are some of the main benefits of installing a heart stent:

1. Smoothing blood flow to the heart
2. The ring helps keep blood vessels open, so that the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle is smoother.
3. Reducing symptoms of heart disease: such as chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, and discomfort caused by blocked arteries.
4. Preventing heart attacks, by improving blood flow, the risk of recurrent heart attacks can be reduced.
5. Improving quality of life, Patients can usually return to their daily activities more comfortably after the procedure, without heavy chest complaints.
6. The recovery process is faster than bypass surgery, because the installation of a ring is a minimally invasive procedure, usually recovery is faster than major surgery such as heart bypass.
7. Stabilizing the patient's condition in an emergency, for example: during an acute heart attack, the installation of a ring can be a lifesaver by opening blocked blood vessels.

When is the installation of a heart stent necessary?

1. There is a significant blockage in the coronary artery, usually more than 70%.
2. Patients experience severe symptoms, such as chest pain during light activity or shortness of breath.
3. Heart attack: if there is a sudden blockage, a ring can be installed to open blood flow quickly.
4. Does not improve with treatment: if taking medication alone is not enough to overcome symptoms.
5. Test results (such as CT Scan angiography or treadmill test) show that there is an area of ​​the heart that is not getting enough blood.

Things to consider after installing a heart stent:

1. Take regular medication, usually the doctor will give anti-clotting drugs (such as clopidogrel) to prevent re-blockage in the ring.
2. Lifestyle changes: stop smoking, eat healthy, do light exercise regularly, and control stress are very important so that the ring continues to function properly.
3. Routine check-ups with the doctor, to monitor the condition of the ring and overall heart health.
4. Be alert to signs of problems, such as: chest pain that recurs, shortness of breath, or severe fatigue, these should be checked by a doctor immediately.
5. Maintain blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol, because all three can affect the health of blood vessels and accelerate new blockages.

Contraindications after installing a heart stent:

1. Foods high in saturated and trans fats, for example: fried foods, butter, hard margarine, fast food.
2. Foods high in salt (sodium), such as: packaged chips, instant noodles, canned foods, bottled sauces. Excess salt can trigger hypertension.
3. Processed meats, for example: sausages, bacon, ham, corned beef. Usually high in salt and fat.
4. Sweet drinks and soda can worsen blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
5. Cigarettes and alcohol are strictly prohibited because they accelerate re-blockage of blood vessels.

Tips for a healthy diet after installing a heart stent:

• Eat lots of fruits and vegetables, at least 3 servings a day. Choose green vegetables, brightly colored fruits (such as apples, oranges, berries).
• Choose healthy proteins, such as: fish (especially fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines), skinless chicken breast, tofu, tempeh.
• Use healthy fats, such as: olive oil, avocado, nuts.
• Choose complex carbohydrates, such as brown rice, oatmeal, sweet potatoes, whole wheat bread.

Understand the Procedure and Treatment After Heart Stent Procedure

For many people, hearing the words "heart ring installation" may sound scary. But actually, this procedure can actually save lives and improve the quality of life of people with coronary heart disease. Let's discuss in simple terms what heart ring installation is, its benefits, when it is needed, and a healthy lifestyle after the procedure.

What is a Heart Stent?

A heart ring (or stent) is a small, mesh-shaped tube that is installed in a narrowed or blocked coronary blood vessel. The goal is to open the blood flow path to the heart, so that the supply of oxygen and nutrients remains smooth.

When is a Heart Stent Needed?

• There is a severe blockage in the artery (usually >70%)
• Severe symptoms such as chest pain even with light activity
• Having or recently having a heart attack
• Medication is no longer effective
• Test results show that blood flow to the heart is disrupted

Conclusion

Heart ring installation is not the end, but rather the beginning of a healthier and better quality of life. With the right treatment and a healthy lifestyle, many patients can return to their normal activities without complaint.

If you or someone close to you is advised to have a heart ring, don't panic. Consult openly with a heart specialist (cardiologist).

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