drug-eluting stents

I am a 53 year old female who had a heart attack in July of '06. A drug-eluting stent was implanted during a cath and angioplasty procedure to establish a better distal flow in the lad.   Recently I had a cta scan that revealed a problem with the stent.  My regular physician had me make an appointment with my cardiologist which I was unable to keep because of my financial situation.  I was never told the specifics of the problem with the stent.  Should I try to see a heart doctor about my stent?  I am unsure as to how serious this problem might be.

[Jack54]

Hi and welcome. You need to get the copy of the ct scan report, and read it, or have your doctor explain it. Tell us the findings and we can help.

That stent is located in the most important coronary artery that you have. You cannot survive full closure of this artery at the proximal end. I am not sure about the distal end.

You mention a "problem" with the stent. Most problems with stents are that they re-stenose or become blocked again. Are you having any symptoms like you did before the stent was inserted?

You have not got your money's worth! Every test includes a thorough explanation to the patient, as part of the test. Be proactive and give these folks a quiz!

Dang money when it comes to a problem with a stent in your Lad........You can't arrange payments for a visit to the cardiologist? Call the office tomorrow and make up a good excuse or better yet tell them of your financial situation. Re-schedule your appointment. Keep your fast acting nitro with you AT ALL TIMES. Remember that the AMA and other organizations recommend chewing 2 aspirin tablets and calling 911 if you suspect another heart attack.

Now, take responsibility for your own health. If you don't, you wont see 2009! Don't become depressed because that will actually, directly make your heart worse.

Best of Luck,

Jack

[erijon]

Have to agree with Jack, the problem with stents most of the time is that they clog again. You need to see your cardiologist somehow so call the office and find a way. Also, they owe you a full explaination of the test results as well so call your doctor. Most importantly, call 911 in you start having symptoms again.

Good Luck!

Jon

[Jane740]

Thank you for your support and the information you gave me.  I have an appointment scheduled for the 28th of January with a cardiologist.  My family has been very supportive of my condition and has loaned me the money for the appointment.  I have had a couple of episodes with chest pains and shortness of breath recently.  I keep my nitro on me and at those times I am able to readily get a nitro tablet.  I will let you know what the cardiologist has to say about the result of the ct scan and if I need any further procedure done to fix the problem with the stent.
Thank you again, Jane