Stents are small tubes used to hold vessels open to permit the free flow of blood, bile, and other body fluids. Appropriate stent size can depend on the location and nature of a blockage or lesion. Sizing is critically important to ensure the device will work properly, with a low risk of complications for the patient. Evaluation before a procedure can help a medical professional determine the most appropriate product to use.
One common reason to need a stent is a blockage in one of the coronary arteries. Called a stenosis, this occurs when plaque builds up inside the artery, hardening the walls and narrowing it. This restricts the flow of blood and can put strain on the heart. Stents are also used to treat blockages in the bile duct and urinary tract. The correct stent size is important for treatment success.
Using ultrasound, a technician can assess the nature of the blockage. Some considerations include the location, which can play a role in placement, as well as the lumen, the width of the opening. A stent that is too large won’t fit, while a small stent might not inflate the vessel enough to provide benefits. Smaller stent size can make a site more prone to restenosis, where the blockage appears again after the procedure.
The length of the lesion is also an important factor in stent size. Longer stents may be necessary in some cases. Medical professionals must also think about the placement procedure, and how they will position the stent. If the injury is in a hard to access area or it requires delicate skills, these can impact the most appropriate stent selection.
Products made for different kinds of lesions are available, including bare metal and drug eluting stents to address blockages in the arteries. Using a stent that secretes medication can reduce the risk of recurrence, as the medication limits cellular growth around the device to keep the area clear. Doctors with a preferred brand may consider this in stent size selection as well, as manufacturers make a range of options to meet various needs.
Patients with questions can ask for information during the testing to prepare for the procedure. It may be possible to look at a sample stent to learn more about the device that will be implanted and how it will work. This can help people who are worried, as learning the details can sometimes make a medical procedure feel less frightening because the patient knows what to expect.
