Stent Thrombosis
Stent Thrombosis
Stent thrombosis is a medical condition that occurs when a blood clot forms on a surgically implanted stent in a blood vessel, blocking the flow of blood in the affected area. It is a serious and life-threatening complication of stent placement that can result in heart attack, stroke, or sudden death.
Stent thrombosis occurs most commonly within the first year following stent placement, and the risk decreases over time. However, it can still occur years after the stent is implanted, especially in people who do not take their medications as prescribed or blood clots elsewhere in the body.
Risk Factors for Stent Thrombosis
Several risk factors can increase a person's chances of developing stent thrombosis:
- Advanced age
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol levels
- Having had a prior stent thrombosis
- Having a history of stroke or heart attack
- Smoking
- Taking certain medications, such as anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs
Signs and Symptoms of Stent Thrombosis
The signs and symptoms of stent thrombosis can vary depending on where in the body the stent is located. Possible symptoms of stent thrombosis include:
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Rapid heart rate
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Weakness
Complications of Stent Thrombosis
Stent thrombosis can lead to several serious and potentially life-threatening complications, including:
- Heart attack
- Irreversible tissue damage
- Stroke
- Sudden death
How is Stent Thrombosis Treated?
The treatment of stent thrombosis depends on the severity of the condition and the overall health of the patient. Possible treatments for stent thrombosis include:
- Blood thinning medications, such as warfarin, aspirin, or heparin
- Catheter-based procedures, such as angioplasty or stent retrieval
- Surgery to open the blocked blood vessel
It is important to follow the instructions of your doctor to reduce the risk of stent thrombosis. This includes taking medications as prescribed and regularly attending follow-up visits.