Midicated stents and clots

[bbsstmez]

I have a family member who  recently had 5 medicated stents placed during angiioplasty.  I am aware of the 1% statistical chance of the stent leading to a catastrophic clot.  In my mind that is a pretty lousy risk to live with.  I understand that the only alternative would be bypass surgery that carries it's own risks as well.  Can anyone provide me with links or references for further opinions and research.  I really appreciate any help.

[anandbharti]

I am a diabetic on insulin. 5 years ago I had two arteries opened with stents. However, the arteries got blocked again within 2 months and I suffered heart attack. This time my cardiologist recommended CABG and there have been no blockages since then.
According to the information I have seen chance of restenosis after angioplasty is higher with insulin taking diabetics. In future if I do get blockages, I will ask my cardiologist to put me for CABG. Being in full time work means angioplasty is a better option  but if it is going to block again then one is better off with CABG.

[bb1199]

Recovering from surgery has been a long and hard road. Pain in the sternum is what is most bothersome especially with wet or cold weather. Recovering from stents was a breeze, immediately relief and felt wonderful that same day. The risks from surgery are greater in my opinion  but you do what is needed to live I suppose. I will definitely think about a second surgery if I am told it needs to be done again because of the quality of life and recovery period.

[bbsstmez]

Thank you for your commenys.  You've been given a tough road to go.  May God be with you.  Do you prefer the stents because of the surgery and recovery or because of the risks?

[bb1199]

I have had 2 heart attacks, 5 stents, 1 stent had to be reopened by a "roter router" and triple bypass last December. I am now 48 years old. I would take the stents anyday over another bypass surgery but you do not always get your wishes in life.
As far as I know there are no other alternatives. The American Heart Association website has some good information. I hope the best for your family member.

[bbsstmez]

Thank you for your information & kind works.  I understant that stens are a whole lot better that none.  I was just wondering what the statistical risks of bypass was as compared to the compounded risk of stents.  I also wonder if there are any other alternatives.  I will try a google search, trouble is alot of non trustworthy info gets mixed in.  Thanks again!

[Tarheelguy1967]

While I understand your concerns, I disagree about living with the 1% chance of a catastrophic clot.  Compared to what one would be facing if they didn't have the stents emplaced, it sounds like pretty good odds to me, and I'd take the 1% chance every time over the alternative (which is a good chance of suffering a heart attack and possibly dying from it).  Granted, having stents does cause lifelong concerns, but they provide you with an opportunity to live longer than you would without them in most cases.  I personally would not have a bypass if a stent would get the job done.  Sometimes a bypass is necessary, but I don't want one any earlier than necessary.  Bypass has it's own complications and life expectancy, so I'll put it off until the doc says I have to have it.  I don't have any specific links off the top of my head, but a google search of bypass and stents will provide you w/ numerous good sites to check out full of great info to help you in your research.  Good luck to you and to your family member.