Last Updated on November 26, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir
At Liv Hospital, we focus on new and less invasive ways to help patients. Putting a heart stent through the wrist, called the transradial approach, is now more popular. It’s because it causes less pain and helps patients get better faster.
Learn how is a heart can a stent be put in through the wrist and what a stent looks like.
A heart stent is a tiny, metal mesh tube. It keeps your artery open, improving blood flow to the heart. Doctors use it to treat blockages in the coronary arteries.
We aim to give top-notch care and use the latest research. The transradial approach shows our commitment to keeping patients safe and comfortable.
Key Takeaways
- The transradial approach involves inserting a stent through the wrist.
- This method is associated with less discomfort and faster recovery.
- A stent is a small, metal mesh tube that keeps arteries open.
- Stents are used to treat blockages in the coronary arteries.
- Liv Hospital is committed to providing high-quality, innovative care.
Understanding Heart Stents and Coronary Artery Disease
It’s key to know about coronary artery disease to understand stents’ role in heart health. This disease happens when plaque builds up in the heart’s arteries. This buildup can block blood flow and harm the heart.
What Is Coronary Artery Disease?
Coronary artery disease is when the heart’s arteries get narrowed or blocked. This is due to a buildup of plaque, made of fat, cholesterol, and more, on the artery walls.
Key factors contributing to coronary artery disease include:
- High levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol
- Smoking
- Hypertension
- Diabetes
- Family history of heart disease
The Role of Stents in Treating Blocked Arteries
Stents are vital in treating blocked arteries. They keep the arteries open, ensuring blood flows well to the heart. A stent is a small, mesh-like tube made of metal or other materials. It’s placed in the narrowed artery during angioplasty.
The stent procedure involves:
- Accessing the blocked artery through a small incision
- Using a balloon to widen the artery
- Deploying the stent to keep the artery open
How Common Is Stent Placement?
Stent placement is a common treatment for coronary artery disease. Thousands of stent placements are done every year worldwide.
| Year | Number of Stent Placements | Success Rate |
| 2020 | 500,000 | 95% |
| 2021 | 550,000 | 96% |
| 2022 | 600,000 | 97% |
The rise in stent placements shows how medical tech has improved. It also shows the growing need for effective treatments for heart disease.
What Does a Heart Stent Look Like?
Heart stents are tiny, mesh-like tubes that keep arteries open. They are a key part of heart care. Knowing what they look like is important for those considering them.
Physical Appearance and Design
A heart stent is a small, cylindrical device made of metal mesh. It’s flexible to move through blood vessels and expands to keep arteries open. The mesh lets it shrink for easy insertion and then grow to fit the artery.
Materials Used in Heart Stents
Heart stents are usually made from stainless steel or cobalt-chromium alloys. These materials give the stent the strength and flexibility it needs. Some stents also have a special coating to help prevent blockages.
How Big Is a Heart Stent?
The size of a heart stent varies based on the patient’s needs. They are typically 15–20 mm long and 2–5 mm wide. Here’s a comparison table to help you understand:
| Stent Dimension | Typical Measurement |
| Length | 15–20 mm |
| Width | 2–5 mm |
| Expanded Diameter | 2.5–4.5 mm |
These sizes are key to making sure the stent fits the patient’s artery right. This helps it work best and reduces risks.
How Does a Heart Stent Work?
Understanding heart stents is key to knowing their role in heart health. A heart stent is a small, mesh-like device. It’s used to treat coronary artery disease.
When a coronary artery gets blocked by plaque, a stent keeps it open. This restores blood flow to the heart muscle. We’ll look at how stents work, including their mechanical support, medication delivery, and how they integrate with the artery over time.
Mechanical Support Function
The main job of a heart stent is to give mechanical support to the artery wall. This is after an angioplasty procedure. It’s vital to stop the artery from collapsing or getting blocked again.
Stents are made to be flexible and expandable. This lets them fit the artery’s shape. Their flexibility keeps them in place and supports the artery wall well.
Medication Delivery Systems
Some heart stents have medication delivery systems to stop the artery from getting blocked again. These are called drug-eluting stents. They release medication to stop new tissue growth that could narrow the artery.
The drug is in a polymer coating on the stent. It slowly releases the drug into the tissue. This targeted delivery reduces complications and keeps the artery open for longer.
| Stent Type | Medication Delivery | Primary Benefit |
| Bare-Metal Stent | No | Simple design, lower risk of complications |
| Drug-Eluting Stent | Yes | Reduced risk of re-narrowing |
Long-Term Integration with Vessel Tissue
Over time, the stent integrates with the vessel tissue. This keeps the artery open. As the stent gets embedded in the artery wall, the chance of it moving or causing problems goes down.
The integration process involves new tissue growing around the stent. This secures it in place. This natural process is key for the stent’s long-term success.
Types of Heart Stents
Heart stents come in different types, like bare-metal, drug-eluting, and bioabsorbable stents. Each type has its own features. The right stent depends on the patient’s health, the blockage’s location, and the risk of restenosis.
Bare-Metal Stents
Bare-metal stents are made of stainless steel or other metals. They help keep the artery open. But, they might not work as well as other stents because they don’t have medicine.
Drug-Eluting Stents
Drug-eluting stents have medicine that slowly releases to stop cell growth. This helps keep the artery open longer. They are a top choice because they work well.
Bioabsorbable Stents
Bioabsorbable stents dissolve over time. They might reduce long-term problems. This new technology is a good option compared to metal stents.
Choosing the Right Stent Type
Choosing the right stent is a big decision. It depends on the patient’s health, the blockage’s location, and the risk of problems. Our medical team works closely with patients to find the best treatment.
| Stent Type | Material | Restenosis Risk |
| Bare-Metal | Stainless Steel | Higher |
| Drug-Eluting | Metal with Drug Coating | Lower |
| Bioabsorbable | Absorbable Material | Varies |
Can a Stent Be Put in Through the Wrist?
The transradial approach for stent placement has changed how cardiologists treat heart disease. It uses the radial artery at the wrist, a less invasive method than traditional ones.
The Transradial Approach Explained
The transradial approach is a method in interventional cardiology. It uses the radial artery at the wrist for stent placement. It’s popular because it may reduce complications and improve patient comfort.
A small puncture is made in the radial artery for the procedure. A catheter is then inserted to guide the stent to the blocked artery. The stent keeps the artery open, improving blood flow to the heart.
History and Development of Wrist Access
The idea of transradial access started in the 1980s. But it wasn’t widely accepted until the 1990s. Technology and technique improvements have made it a top choice for many cardiologists.
- Early adoption was slow due to technical issues and training needs.
- Improvements in catheter design and imaging have boosted success rates.
- More experience and clinical trial evidence have confirmed its value in cardiology.
Patient Eligibility for Wrist Approach
Not every patient is right for the transradial approach. The size of the radial artery, presence of peripheral artery disease, and the complexity of the blockage are key factors.
Our cardiologists evaluate each patient to decide the best access route. They consider clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and the patient’s health status.
- Patients with small or diseased radial arteries may not be suitable.
- Those with complex coronary artery disease may need a different approach.
- Previous radial access experience can influence the decision.
Wrist vs. Groin Approach for Stent Placement
Stent placement can be done through different sites, like the wrist or groin. Knowing the differences is key for the best care. The choice depends on the patient’s body and the procedure’s complexity.
Comparing Access Sites
The wrist and groin approaches have their own pros and cons. The wrist method, or transradial approach, has less bleeding risk and is more comfortable. This is because the wrist artery is smaller and easier to press after the procedure.
Key differences between wrist and groin approaches:
| Characteristics | Wrist (Transradial) Approach | Groin (Femoral) Approach |
| Bleeding Complications | Lower risk | Higher risk |
| Patient Comfort | Generally more comfortable | May require longer bed rest |
| Procedure Complexity | Can be more challenging for complex cases | Easier for complex interventions |
When Is Each Approach Preferred?
The choice between wrist and groin approaches depends on several factors. These include the patient’s body, the disease’s complexity, and the doctor’s experience. For example, some patients or complex cases might do better with one method over the other.
We often choose the wrist approach for patients at lower risk and with quicker recovery times. The groin approach might be better for complex cases or when the wrist artery is not accessible.
Special Considerations for Complex Cases
In complex cases, like chronic total occlusions or multi-vessel interventions, the access site matters a lot. The groin approach was once the go-to for its larger artery and easier access. But, new techniques and tools have made the wrist approach more viable.
We look at each case closely. We consider the patient’s health, their disease, and their wishes to pick the best access site for stent placement.
The Heart Stent Procedure: Step by Step
We guide you through the step-by-step process of how a heart stent is put in. This ensures you understand each stage of the procedure.
Pre-Procedure Preparation
Before the heart stent procedure starts, several steps are taken. These include:
- Administering local anesthesia to numb the area where the stent will be inserted.
- Preparing the patient for monitoring during the procedure, which includes attaching ECG leads and a blood pressure cuff.
- Ensuring the patient is comfortable and informed about what to expect during the procedure.
Accessing the Radial Artery
The first step in the procedure is accessing the radial artery through the wrist. This involves:
- Numbing the wrist area with local anesthesia.
- Inserting a small needle into the radial artery, followed by a guidewire.
- Placing a sheath over the guidewire to facilitate the insertion of catheters.
Navigating to the Heart
Once access is gained, the next step is to navigate to the heart. This is achieved by:
- Using a catheter that is guided through the arterial system to the coronary arteries.
- Employing X-ray imaging to visualize the catheter’s path and ensure accurate placement.
- Injecting contrast dye to identify the blockage and assess the coronary anatomy.
Balloon Angioplasty and Stent Deployment
The final stage involves:
- Performing balloon angioplasty to widen the blocked artery.
- Deploying the stent, which is mounted on a balloon, at the site of the blockage.
- Inflating the balloon to expand the stent, which then remains in place to keep the artery open.
The stent deployment is a critical step. It ensures the artery remains open, improving blood flow to the heart.
Benefits of the Wrist Approach for Stent Placement
The wrist approach for stent placement has many benefits. Cardiologists have seen a big shift to this method. It’s better for patients in many ways.
Reduced Bleeding Complications
One key advantage is less bleeding. Studies show transradial access has lower bleeding rates than the femoral approach. This is great for patients at risk of bleeding or on blood thinners.
Reduced bleeding complications lead to better patient outcomes. It also means fewer extra treatments and shorter hospital stays. We’ve seen a big drop in complications, making the procedure safer.
Improved Patient Comfort
Comfort is another big plus. The radial artery is easier to handle than the femoral artery. This makes recovery more comfortable for patients.
Improved patient comfort means better follow-up with post-procedure advice. Patients are more likely to follow instructions when they feel good.
Faster Recovery and Mobility
Faster recovery is a big advantage. Patients can get back to their lives sooner. This is great for those with busy lives or lots of responsibilities.
Patients with transradial stent placement tend to recover faster. They get back to normal activities sooner than those with the femoral approach.
Lower Healthcare Costs
The wrist approach can also save money. It reduces bleeding risks and speeds up recovery. This means fewer extra treatments and shorter hospital stays. It’s good for patients and the healthcare system.
| Benefits | Transradial Approach | Femoral Approach |
| Bleeding Complications | Lower | Higher |
| Patient Comfort | Improved | Variable |
| Recovery Time | Faster | Longer |
| Healthcare Costs | Lower | Higher |
In conclusion, the wrist approach for stent placement has many benefits. It reduces bleeding, improves comfort, speeds up recovery, and lowers costs. As cardiology advances, the transradial approach is becoming a key option for patients.
Recovery After a Transradial Stent Procedure
Recovery after a transradial stent procedure involves several key steps. These steps help ensure a smooth and successful outcome. The transradial approach is known for its minimally invasive nature. This generally allows for quicker recovery times compared to other methods.
Immediate Post-Procedure Care
After the procedure, patients are monitored in a recovery area for a few hours. Our medical team keeps a close eye on vital signs and watches for any complications. Immediate post-procedure care is key for identifying and addressing any issues early on.
- Monitoring of vital signs
- Observation for bleeding or hematoma at the access site
- Management of pain or discomfort
Hospital Discharge Timeline
One of the benefits of the transradial approach is that many patients can be discharged on the same day as their procedure. The exact discharge timeline can vary depending on individual patient factors and the specifics of the procedure.
Before discharge, patients receive detailed instructions on how to care for themselves at home. This includes information on medication, activity levels, and signs of complications to watch for.
Activity Restrictions and Return to Normal Life
While recovery is generally quick, there are some activity restrictions to follow. These typically include avoiding heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and bending for a short period, usually a few days to a week.
- Avoid heavy lifting for 2-3 days
- Limit strenuous activities for 3-7 days
- Resume normal activities gradually as advised by your healthcare provider
Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within a short time, often within a week. It’s essential to follow the specific guidance provided by your healthcare team.
Long-Term Follow-Up and Medication
Long-term follow-up after a stent procedure is key for ensuring the stent remains open and functions properly. Patients are typically required to take antiplatelet medications to prevent clot formation on the stent.
- Follow-up appointments with your cardiologist
- Adherence to prescribed medication regimens
- Lifestyle modifications to support heart health, such as diet and exercise
By following these guidelines and maintaining regular follow-up care, patients can enjoy improved heart health. This reduces the risk of future cardiovascular events.
Conclusion
The transradial approach for heart stent placement is a valuable technique. It offers patients a less invasive option with quicker recovery times. A heart stent is a small, mesh-like device that keeps arteries open.
Its design has evolved to include various materials and medication delivery systems. The transradial approach has benefits like reduced discomfort and faster recovery. This makes it an attractive option for patients undergoing stent placement.
By understanding what a heart stent looks like and how it is implanted through the wrist, patients can better appreciate the advancements in cardiovascular care. The transradial approach is a significant development in treating coronary artery disease. It provides a safer and more comfortable experience for patients.
As medical technology continues to evolve, the use of heart stents and the transradial approach will likely remain a key part of cardiovascular treatment.
FAQ
What is a heart stent and what does it look like?
A heart stent is a small, metal mesh tube. It keeps arteries open, improving blood flow. It’s about 15–20 mm long and 2–5 mm wide.
How is a stent put in through the wrist?
The transradial approach uses the wrist’s radial artery. It goes to the coronary arteries. Then, a balloon angioplasty deploys the stent.
What are the benefits of the wrist approach for stent placement?
The wrist approach lowers bleeding risks and boosts comfort. It also means faster recovery and mobility. Plus, it might cut healthcare costs.
What is coronary artery disease and how do stents treat it?
Coronary artery disease blocks blood flow to the heart with plaque buildup. Stents keep the arteries open, treating this condition.
What are the different types of heart stents available?
There are bare-metal stents, drug-eluting stents, and bioabsorbable stents. Each has its own use and characteristics.
How long does it take to recover from a transradial stent procedure?
Recovery from a transradial stent procedure is quick. Most people get back to normal activities in no time.
What is the size of a typical heart stent?
Heart stents are usually 15–20 mm long and 2–5 mm wide. Sizes can vary based on individual anatomy.
How does a heart stent work?
A heart stent supports the artery walls mechanically. It keeps the artery open. It can also deliver medication to prevent re-narrowing.
What are the advantages of drug-eluting stents?
Drug-eluting stents release medication. This helps prevent the artery from re-narrowing, reducing restenosis risk.
Are there any activity restrictions after a transradial stent procedure?
After the procedure, avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a short time. But, you can usually get back to normal life quickly.
What is the material used to make stents?
Stents are made from metal mesh. Some are made from bioabsorbable materials that dissolve over time.
How is the choice of stent type determined?
The choice of stent type depends on several factors. These include the patient’s condition, the lesion’s complexity, and the risk of restenosis.
References
Bamias, A., et al. (2017). Current clinical practice guidelines for the treatment of renal cell carcinoma: A systematic review. Cancer Treatment Reviews, 53, 107-116. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5469586/
