What is Vascular Stenting? A vascular stent is a metal mesh tube placed in a narrowed or occluded artery or vein. It is commonly used to hold diseased vessels open after angioplasty, a technique in which a balloon catheter is inflated across a narrowed vessel. The arterial narrowing is caused by Peripheral Vascular Disease. With this disease, cholesterol of fatty plaques are deposited on the walls of the arteries. This build up, called atherosclerosis, eventually narrows and even occludes the artery. This results in a loss of blood flow to the legs, hands, kidneys, and bowel and, with carotid vascular disease, can result in a stroke. Angioplasty and stenting can be used to re-open these arteries. What can I expect before Vascular Stenting? It is important to speak with you physician before the procedure. You may be asked to: Have blood tests prior to your stent placement. Make adjustments in your medication. Limit food and/or drink for a time prior to the procedure. Stay in the hospital after the procedure. What can I expect during my stent placement? You may be asked questions regarding your past medical history, allergies, and medications. You will meet with the Radiologist, discuss the procedure. The procedure is performed under flouroscopy. You will be covered with a sterile sheet and an area of skin will be cleansed with liquid soap. A small plastic catheter will be placed in an artery in either the hip area or the arm. Lidocaine, a numbing medication, will be used in this area to prevent discomfort. Radiographic contrast (X-ray dye) will be injected and radiographs taken to evaluate the diseased vessel. The narrowed segment of the vessel is crossed, dilated by inflation of the balloon catheter and, if necessary, a stent is placed. What happens after Vascular Stenting? You may be required to stay in the hospital overnight for observation. You should keep you leg or arm straight for a few hours after the procedure. Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out the x-ray dye. Relax and rest when you get home.