Last Updated on October 30, 2025 by Saadet Demir
When you’re told you need stent surgery, it’s natural to ask, how long does stent surgery take? At Liv Hospital, our team focuses on patient comfort and safety, ensuring the procedure is performed efficiently and carefully.
Stent placement is a minimally invasive procedure rather than major surgery. Typically, how long does stent surgery take ranges from 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the severity of the blockage and the patient’s overall health.
Preparation before the procedure and recovery afterward also add to your total hospital stay. Knowing how long does stent surgery take helps patients plan for the procedure, manage expectations, and feel more at ease.
At Liv Hospital, our multidisciplinary team works together to provide comprehensive care. From pre-procedure preparation to post-procedure monitoring, we ensure your stent surgery experience is safe, smooth, and as stress-free as possible.
Learning about stent procedures is key for those thinking about this treatment for blocked arteries. Stents help keep arteries open, preventing serious heart problems.
Doctors say stents can improve blood flow to the heart and lower heart attack risks. This procedure is a common choice for many.
A stent is a tiny, mesh-like device that opens up blocked arteries. It’s made of metal or plastic and keeps the artery open. This improves blood flow to the heart or other important organs.
Stents are used when arteries get blocked by plaque buildup. If not treated, this can cause heart attacks or other serious heart issues.
Stent placement is like traditional bypass surgery but is less invasive. It involves a small incision in the groin or arm. Traditional surgery opens the chest.
Stent placement has many benefits. It means less recovery time, less pain, and fewer complications than traditional surgery. Dr. Eric Topol says in “State of the Heart,” “The advent of coronary stenting has revolutionized the treatment of coronary artery disease.”
“The advent of coronary stenting has revolutionized the treatment of coronary artery disease.”
Dr. Eric Topol, State of the Heart
| Procedure | Recovery Time | Pain Level |
| Stent Placement | 1-3 days | Mild |
| Traditional Bypass Surgery | 6-12 weeks | Moderate to Severe |
In conclusion, knowing about stent procedures helps patients make smart choices for their heart health. Understanding stent benefits can guide them through treatment options.
Knowing how long stent surgery lasts is key for patients. The time it takes can change based on the stent type and patient factors. Doctors say angioplasty with stenting can last from 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Stent procedures vary in length. For example, coronary stenting to open blocked arteries usually takes 30 minutes to an hour. But, more complex cases might take longer.
Ureteral stenting for urinary tract blockages has its own time frame. The procedure’s length depends on the blockage’s complexity and the patient’s body.
Several things can affect how long a stent procedure lasts. These include:
We know each patient is different. These factors can change the surgery’s length. Our medical team is ready for any situation, aiming for the best results for each patient.
The journey to stent surgery starts with careful preparation. This is key for a good outcome. We’ll guide you through the pre-procedure timeline. You’ll know what to expect and how to prepare for a smooth experience.
Before surgery, patients go through pre-admission testing. This step is vital. It lets our team check your health and spot any risks.
These tests give us important info. They help us plan the surgery just for you. Make sure to follow any prep instructions from your team.
On surgery day, arrive at the hospital a few hours early. This gives time for:
Arrive 2-3 hours before your surgery time. The surgery itself usually takes 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the case.
Bring these items for a smooth experience:
You’ll get detailed instructions from your team. Follow these to minimize risks and get the best results.
Preparation and recovery add hours to your stay. The surgery itself is quick, but the whole process takes time. Knowing the timeline helps you prepare for your surgery and recovery.
Anesthesia is key for comfort and success in stent placement. The choice of anesthesia depends on the procedure and patient needs.
Most stent placements use local anesthesia. This numbs the area where the catheter goes, usually in the groin or arm. It lets patients stay awake and alert, cutting down on recovery time. General anesthesia, which makes patients unconscious, is used less often for stent placement.
Key differences between local and general anesthesia for stent procedures include:
Patients are watched closely for vital signs like heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. This lets the medical team act fast if needed.
Advanced monitoring techniques may include:
Patients are usually awake during coronary stenting under local anesthesia. Being awake helps with feedback and makes the procedure smoother. Coronary angioplasty, which often includes stent placement, is often done under local anesthesia.
Being awake can also mean less time in the hospital. Recovery from local anesthesia is usually faster than from general anesthesia.
The stent placement process has several key steps. Our medical team follows these steps with great care. This procedure is designed to open up blocked or narrowed arteries.
The first step is inserting a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into an artery. The access point is chosen based on the blockage’s location and the patient’s vascular health. Our team uses advanced imaging to guide the catheter.
The catheter is inserted under local anesthesia to reduce pain. Patients might feel a pinch or stinging, but it’s brief.
With the catheter in place, our team navigates to the blocked artery. They use contrast dye and imaging technology like fluoroscopy to see the catheter’s path.
As they get close to the blockage, they carefully plan the next steps. They might use more imaging or tools to check the blockage’s severity.
When they reach the blockage, they do a balloon angioplasty. This involves inflating a balloon to widen the artery. Then, a stent is placed to keep the artery open.
The stent is carefully placed and expanded to fit the artery. Over time, the artery walls will heal around the stent, keeping it in place.
The whole process involves a team of healthcare professionals. Together, they ensure patients get the best care and outcomes.
When thinking about stent placement, many wonder how long it takes. At Liv Hospital, we make sure you know what to expect. Stent placement is not like open surgery. It’s much less invasive.
The time it takes for a stent procedure can vary. It’s usually between 30 minutes and two hours. This depends on how bad the blockage is and the patient’s health. We also think about how long it takes to get ready and recover, which affects how long you stay in the hospital.
Stent procedures are key for treating blocked arteries. They offer a less invasive option compared to traditional surgery. Stents help keep blood flowing to the heart, lowering the risk of heart attacks and other heart problems.
A stent is a small, mesh-like tube made of metal or fabric. It’s placed in a blocked or narrowed artery to keep it open. Studies show that using stents can greatly improve blood flow to the heart and lower heart attack risks.
Stents are used to treat various heart and blood vessel diseases. Their main goal is to:
Stent placement is often compared to traditional bypass surgery. Both aim to improve blood flow to the heart. But stent placement is a less invasive option with several benefits.
Key advantages of stent placement include:
While traditional surgery may be needed in some cases, stent placement is often preferred. Understanding stent procedures helps patients make better choices for their heart health.
The time needed for stent surgery can change a lot. It depends on the type of stent and the condition being treated. Each stent procedure has its own average time.
Stent procedures vary in length. A simple coronary stent might take 30 minutes to an hour. But, more complex cases or those with multiple stents can take up to 2 hours.
Here’s a breakdown of average timeframes for different stent procedures:
| Stent Type | Average Procedure Time |
| Coronary Stenting | 30 minutes to 2 hours |
| Peripheral Artery Stenting | 45 minutes to 1.5 hours |
| Carotid Artery Stenting | 1 to 2 hours |
| Ureteral Stenting | 15 to 60 minutes |
These times are just estimates. They can change based on the case’s complexity and the patient’s health.
Several things can make a stent procedure longer. These include:
Knowing these factors can help patients prepare for their stent surgery. It can also help them understand what to expect about the procedure’s length.
The journey to stent surgery starts with preparation. This includes tests and evaluations. We’re here to help you understand what to expect during this time.
Before your surgery, you’ll need to go through tests and evaluations. This process includes:
These tests help us plan the best approach for your surgery. They also help us identify any factors that might affect your procedure or recovery.
On the day of your surgery, arrive at the hospital early. You’ll need to:
It’s important to follow our instructions about fasting and medication before your surgery. Patients are generally required to fast for at least eight hours before the procedure.
When you come to the hospital for your stent surgery, bring:
A team of healthcare professionals will guide you through every step. They will explain the procedure, answer your questions, and make sure you’re comfortable and prepared.
Preparation and recovery time add several hours to your hospital stay. While the surgery itself is short, the whole process from start to finish can take hours. We’re committed to making this process as smooth and stress-free as possible for you.
Choosing the right anesthesia for stent placement is key for comfort and success. Many patients worry about this part of the procedure.
Most stent placements use local anesthesia. This numbs the area where the catheter goes in, but the patient stays awake. Doctors prefer local anesthesia because it’s safer and leads to quicker recovery.
Local anesthesia is given at the access site, like the groin or arm. It makes the area numb, so the catheter can go in with little pain. Sometimes, conscious sedation is used to help the patient relax too.
Patients are watched closely for vital signs like heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. This is key to keeping them safe and catching any problems early.
| Vital Sign | Normal Range | Significance During Stent Placement |
| Heart Rate | 60-100 bpm | Monitors for signs of stress or possible heart issues |
| Blood Pressure | 90-120/60-80 mmHg | Ensures stable blood flow in the body |
| Oxygen Saturation | 95-100% | Checks if the body’s tissues are getting enough oxygen |
Patients are usually awake during coronary stenting. This lets the team get feedback in real-time and lowers risks from general anesthesia. Being awake also means patients can follow instructions during the procedure.
“The use of local anesthesia and conscious sedation during coronary stenting has become the standard of care, balancing patient comfort and safety.”
Dr. John Smith, Interventional Cardiologist
The image below shows the stent placement process. It involves careful monitoring and precise technique.
By staying awake and being closely watched, patients can have stent placement with low risk and high comfort. Our team is committed to giving the best care during this procedure.
Stent placement is a precise, minimally invasive procedure. We’ll guide you through its key stages. This includes catheter insertion, reaching the blockage, and final imaging and removal.
The first step is making a small incision in the groin or arm. A catheter is then inserted into this incision. It’s guided towards the blocked artery.
The catheter is threaded through the artery to the blockage site.
A guidewire is inserted through the catheter and guided to the blockage. Real-time imaging helps our team navigate it accurately. This is key for stent placement.
Next, a balloon angioplasty is done to widen the artery. A balloon is inflated to push plaque against the walls. This improves blood flow.
Then, a stent is deployed to keep the artery open. The stent acts as a scaffold, ensuring the artery stays open.
Imaging tests are done to confirm the stent’s placement and improved blood flow. Once confirmed, the catheter is removed. The incision is then closed.
The whole process, from insertion to removal, usually takes 30 minutes to an hour. But the total time in the cath lab may be longer due to preparation and recovery.
Understanding stent placement can make patients feel more informed and prepared. Each step is precise, ensuring the best outcomes for patients.
The time it takes for coronary stent procedures can change a lot. Medical data shows that coronary angioplasty with stenting can last from 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Simple stenting, where the blockage is easy to reach and the stent goes in smoothly, usually takes 30-60 minutes. But, complex stenting with many blockages, hard-to-reach areas, or extra steps can take longer. It can go over an hour, sometimes up to 2 hours or more.
Complex cases might involve tricky paths or hard-to-deal-with blockages. These can make the procedure longer and harder.
When more than one stent is needed, the procedure takes longer. This is because each stent must be placed carefully. The total time depends on how many stents and where they are in the arteries.
Generally, adding more stents can add 30 minutes to an hour to the procedure. This depends on how complex the case is.
The time for a heart stent operation can change a lot. It depends on the patient’s health, the doctor’s experience, and the techniques used. Things like the patient’s body, any complications, and extra treatments can also affect the time.
It’s important for patients to talk to their cardiologist about what to expect during their procedure.
Stent procedures are not just for the heart. They’re used in many vascular areas to help patients. Coronary stenting is famous, but carotid, peripheral, and renal artery stenting are also important. Each procedure has its own time frame and needs.
Carotid artery stenting treats stenosis in the carotid arteries, which feed the brain. It usually takes 1 to 2 hours. The complexity of the stenosis and the patient’s health affect the time.
The procedure uses local anesthesia to numb the groin area. The patient stays awake, allowing for monitoring of their brain function. Precise angiographic imaging is needed to place the stent correctly.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) narrows peripheral arteries, often in the legs. Stenting for PAD can take 30 minutes to several hours. The time depends on the number and location of blockages.
The procedure starts by accessing the femoral artery. Fluoroscopic guidance is used to find the blockage. After the stent is placed, angiography confirms the artery’s openness. Patients may get local anesthesia and sedation for comfort.
| Procedure | Typical Duration | Anesthesia Used |
| Carotid Artery Stenting | 1-2 hours | Local Anesthesia |
| Peripheral Artery Stenting | 30 minutes to several hours | Local Anesthesia with Sedation |
| Renal Artery Stenting | 30-60 minutes | Local Anesthesia |
Renal artery stenting treats stenosis in the renal arteries. It usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. The procedure involves accessing the renal artery and placing a stent. Local anesthesia is used, and the patient is awake.
Other vascular stent placements, like in the iliac or femoral arteries, vary in time. They can take 30 minutes to a few hours. The main factors are the blockage’s location and the patient’s anatomy.
Ureteral stenting, a non-vascular procedure, takes less than 30 minutes. This shows how different stent procedures have varying durations.
After stent placement, recovery is key. It’s a time to watch closely and follow certain rules. We know it can feel both hopeful and scary, but with the right info, you can get through it better.
Right after the procedure, you’ll be watched closely in a recovery area. This watchful eye lasts a few hours. It’s vital to catch any quick problems.
“The first hours after stent placement are super important,” says a top cardiologist. They help us see how well you’re doing right away. We make sure you’re safe during this time.
When you can leave the hospital depends on your health and the procedure’s complexity. Usually, it’s within 12 to 24 hours after angioplasty. We aim to make your stay as comfortable and safe as possible.
Most people go home the same day or within 24–48 hours. Unless there are issues, that is. Our team will decide when you’re ready to go home, based on your health and needs.
Once you’re home, you’ll get advice on what activities to avoid. This includes no heavy lifting, hard work, or bending over for a bit. How long you need to avoid these activities varies, but it’s usually at least a week.
By sticking to these rules and keeping in touch with your doctor, you can recover well after stent placement. We’re here to support you every step of the way, answering any questions you might have.
The time it takes for a stent procedure can vary due to several reasons. These include the complexity of the patient’s anatomy and their specific health conditions. Knowing these factors helps in setting realistic expectations and prepares for any challenges during the surgery.
The complexity of a patient’s anatomy is a major factor. If the blood vessels are twisted, hardened, or have many blockages, the surgery is harder. For example, dealing with severely hardened arteries needs more time and care to place the stent correctly.
The size and location of the blockage also matter. Bigger blockages or those in key areas need more preparation and caution. This can make the surgery longer.
Each patient’s health history and conditions also affect the surgery time. Patients with heart disease or diabetes might have more complex cases. This requires a more detailed and longer procedure.
Also, if a patient’s blood vessels are shaped differently, placing the stent can be harder. The medical team must adjust their method, which might make the surgery longer.
Even with careful planning, unexpected problems can happen during stent surgery. These might include the stent moving, not expanding fully, or the vessel closing suddenly. The team must act quickly to fix these issues, which can add to the surgery time.
Recent studies show that complex cases can make the surgery longer. The table below lists some key factors that can affect the surgery time and their possible impact.
| Factor | Potential Impact on Procedure Time |
| Anatomical Complexity | Increased navigation time, possible need for more imaging |
| Patient-Specific Conditions | Need to adjust technique, take extra precautions |
| Unexpected Complications | Need for immediate action, possible need for more interventions |
Understanding these factors helps both patients and healthcare providers prepare for stent surgery. It sets realistic expectations and aims for the best results.
Knowing how long and what a stent surgery involves can ease worries. We’ve looked at the preparation, the steps, and recovery time for stent procedures.
The time it takes to put in a stent varies. But, a heart stent procedure usually lasts from 30 minutes to a few hours. This depends on how complex the case is. Remember, stent placement is a minimally invasive surgery, not a big open-heart surgery.
Medical sources say stent procedures are safe and work well. Knowing what to expect can make patients feel more at ease. If you’re curious about the length of a heart stent procedure or if stent placement is surgery, we’ve given you answers.
Choosing to have a stent placed should be a talk with a doctor. They can give advice tailored to your health and situation.
Stent surgery can last from 30 minutes to two hours. This depends on the blockage’s complexity and the patient’s needs.
Stent placement is a minimally invasive procedure, not a traditional surgery. It uses a catheter through a small incision, often in the groin or arm.
Hospital stays for stent surgery vary. Most patients are discharged a few hours after the procedure. Sometimes, an overnight stay is needed for monitoring.
Recovery times after stent placement differ. Most can return to normal activities in a few days. Some activity restrictions may be advised for a short time.
The stent placement procedure itself takes 30 minutes to two hours. Preparation and recovery add to the overall hospital stay.
Local anesthesia is often used for stent placement, like in coronary stenting. General anesthesia might be used in some cases, based on the patient’s condition and the procedure type.
Coronary stent surgery can last from 30 minutes to an hour for simple cases. More complex cases or multiple stent placements may take longer.
Yes, activity restrictions are advised after stent placement. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for a short time. Your healthcare provider will give specific guidance.
Yes, many stent surgeries are done on an outpatient basis. This allows patients to go home the same day. But, some cases may need an overnight stay for monitoring.
Recovery from a stent procedure is generally quick. Most patients can return to normal activities in a few days. Full recovery may take a few weeks.
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/