Hello,
Stents are used to keep coronary arteries open and improve blood flow to the heart muscle. In some cases, when a previously placed stent becomes blocked or narrowed again (restenosis), a new stent might be placed inside the existing one to maintain blood flow.
Triple layered stents are designed to provide added strength and support to the blood vessel walls, which can help reduce the risk of complications such as restenosis (narrowing of the treated vessel) or
stent thrombosis (formation of a blood clot within the stent). Nevertheless, there are potential risks and complications associated.
With stenting including triple layered stenting potential complications that may occur are:
1. Restenosis: Re-narrowing of the artery due to the formation of scar tissue, which can lead to the need for additional interventions, such as another angioplasty or
coronary bypass surgery.
2. Stent thrombosis: Formation of a blood clot inside the stent, which can potentially lead to another heart attack.
The prognosis for patients who receive a triple layered stent can vary depending on several factors, including the patient's overall health, the specific condition being treated, such as
atherosclerosis,
peripheral artery disease, can affect the success rate of the procedure and the patient's overall prognosis. Also the skill of the medical team performing the procedure has greater impact on prognosis as well.
Patients with a history of recurrent MI and multiple stenting are at a higher risk of developing complications such as heart failure, arrhythmias, and
sudden cardiac death. However, the presence of a pacemaker and defibrillator can help manage these complications and improve the overall prognosis. Other medical conditions or risk factors, such as diabetes,
high blood pressure, or a history of active smoking have less favorable prognosis.
Given your husband's history of recurrent myocardial infarctions and history of arrhythmias(
abnormal heart rate), for which pacemaker and defibrillator has been placed, he may also benefit from lifestyle modifications, such as a heart-healthy diet, regular cardio exercise, and stress reduction techniques, to help improve his overall cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of future complications. Patients treated by experienced interventional radiologists or cardiologists may have better outcomes. Proper follow-up care and adherence to prescribed medications and lifestyle changes can significantly impact the long-term success of the stent.
Additionally in case of failure of the procedure or complications related to stenting along with history multiple vessel involved (as evident from multiple stenting), such as double vessel coronary artery disease or triple vessel coronary disease (2 blood vessels involved or 3 blood vessels involved), cardiologist might recommend undergoing coronary artery bypass graft(CABG) which has better outcomes if stenting is not possible anymore.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Haneef Abbasi, Internal Medicine Specialist