Stent or bypass: Which one is preferable?

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is characterised by a narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries caused by plaque buildup. Coronary artery disease symptoms might range from no symptoms to chest discomfort and a heart attack. Coronary artery disease can be treated with medical techniques such as stents or bypass surgery.

Choosing the best treatment option is typically a personal choice. Each approach has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Many factors are considered, including the amount of blockages and where they are placed. Before deciding on the best outcome, both the patient’s and the cardiologist’s preferences are considered.

In certain circumstances, the choice is apparent. However, there are certain grey areas. Sometimes it is difficult to see how one solution is preferable than another. This article will compare the advantages and disadvantages of stents and bypass surgery in the treatment of coronary artery disease to determine which is superior.

Stenting

A stent is a tiny metal or plastic tube used to open a clogged coronary artery. When a buildup of cholesterol blocks an artery, a stent can be used to restore blood flow and lower the risk of a heart attack.

ADVANTAGES

In an emergency, stenting is frequently preferred over CABG.

Because stents come in a range of sizes, forms, and materials, the cardiologist has several alternatives for treating the patient.

DISADVANTAGES

It is considered a high-risk operation. Sometimes, unexpected complications arise. Severe bleeding, for example, may require immediately switching therapy to open surgery.

The stent is intended to be used to treat potentially fatal blockages in a single channel. It is not recommended in situations of numerous vascular obstructions.

Bypass Surgery

Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery, also known as heart bypass surgery, improves blood flow to the heart by grafting a blood vessel between the aorta and the coronary artery, or arteries going to the heart muscle, to build a bypass around a blocked artery. Two to four grafts are often necessary, sometimes called a double, triple, or quadruple bypass.

ADVANTAGES

• It reduces the likelihood of having a heart attack.
• It has the power to reduce or eradicate cardiac issues permanently.
• It gives physical exercise a boost of energy.
• For diabetic individuals, bypass surgery is also more successful than stenting.
• In some cases, bypass surgery is necessary. For example, when a blood vessel is significantly damaged and unhealthy, bypass surgery is the best option.
• If the anatomy of the arteries is very complicated, bypass surgery may be considered a preferable option.

DISADVANTAGES

• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Heartbeat fluctuations
• Bleeding
• Allergic effects on the anesthesia or other equipment used in surgery
• Injuries in nerves
• Fatality, in rare cases

WHICH ONE TO PREFER?

At times, deciding between stenting and bypass surgery might be challenging. A choice can be made after a detailed examination by the cardiologist, which includes, among other things, analyzing the severity of the CAD, the number of vessels that need to be repaired, and the patient’s medical history.

The Best heart specialist hospital in chandigarh for stenting and bypass operations, Healing Hospital. They are well-known for their top-notch facilities and are highly qualified doctors and healthcare experts on staff. Set up an appointment with the best heart specialist hospital in Chandigarh.