Minimally invasive treatment to open narrow veins
Multiple venous conditions such as deep vein thrombosis and chronic venous insufficiency and May-Thurner syndrome can cause veins in the legs, chest, or abdomen to narrow or become blocked. Your doctor may recommend placement of a wire mesh tube called a stent to open the vein and allow blood to flow more easily.
The doctors in our vein program are experts at treating venous disorders using advanced minimally invasive methods. They will work with you to develop a treatment plan for your unique condition to help relieve symptoms and minimize the risk of complications.
Why peripheral vascular disease angioplasty and stenting is performed?
Angioplasty and stenting help restore proper blood flow that has been affected by peripheral vascular disease, as well as relieve symptoms associated with PVD. Peripheral vascular disease angioplasty and stenting can be combined with lifestyle changes to treat the underlying cause of PVD.
Peripheral vascular disease can develop due to various conditions, including:
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Arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arterial walls)
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Smoking
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Certain conditions, like diabetes
Symptoms experienced with peripheral artery disease generally occur in the area of the blockage, and may include:
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Pain
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Fatigue
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Cramping
What to expect during vascular stenting?
You may be asked to not eat or drink the day of your procedure. You will have an IV inserted in your hand to provide a sedative to relax you during the stent placement. The doctor will numb the incision site with a local anesthetic and insert a thin, flexible tube called a catheter with a balloon attached to the end of it.
Using X-ray guidance, your surgeon will direct the catheter to the narrowed vein. The doctor will then inflate the balloon to press the stent into place and hold open the narrowed vein. The catheter will then be removed, and you will be taken to a recovery area. You may be monitored for several hours following the procedure but will likely be able to return home the same day.
How to prepare for peripheral vascular disease angioplasty and stenting?
Patients should discuss all medications they are currently taking with their medical team prior to scheduling an angioplasty and stenting procedure. Some medications can increase the risk of certain complications, so patients may be asked not to take them for a few days before their angioplasty. Patients should follow all instructions given to them by their physicians before the procedure.
Risks and benefits of peripheral vascular disease angioplasty and stenting
Minimally invasive angioplasty and stenting for peripheral vascular disease offer patients numerous benefits, including:
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Smaller incisions
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Faster recovery time
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Lower risk of complications
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The use of a sedative instead of general anesthesia, so patients can go home the same day
Risks associated with angioplasty and stenting for the treatment of peripheral vascular disease include:
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Bleeding
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Infection
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Damage to the treated blood vessel
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Complete closure of the blood vessel
Tests
Computerized tomography (CT) scan
The cardiac computed tomography scan, or cardiac CT, uses X-rays to create three-dimensional images of your heart and blood vessels.
Fluoroscopy
A fluoroscopy is an imaging technique that uses a continuous X-ray beam passed through the body to create real-time, moving images of your internal structures.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Magnetic resonance imaging, better known as cardiac MRI, is a combination of radio waves, magnets, and computer technology to create images of your heart and blood vessels.
Post peripheral vascular disease angioplasty and stenting
Following an angioplasty and placement of a stent, patients should rest for the remainder of the day at home. Patients will be instructed to avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours after the procedure and may be given a blood-thinning medication to avoid the formation of blood clots while the area heals.
Our providers
Expert cardiology care
Getting the care you need starts with seeing one of our cardiovascular surgeons.
Our locations
Distance from Change locationEnter your location
MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center
7503 Surratts Rd. Clinton, MD 20735
MedStar Union Memorial Hospital
201 E. University Pkwy. Baltimore, MD 21218
MedStar St Mary's Hospital
25500 Point Lookout Rd. Leonardtown, MD 20650
MedStar Montgomery Medical Center
18101 Prince Philip Dr. Olney, MD 20832
MedStar Washington Hospital Center
110 Irving St. NW Washington, DC 20010
MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
3800 Reservoir Rd. NW Washington, DC, 20007
Ask MedStar Heart & Vascular Institute
Have general questions for our heart and vascular program? Email us at AskMHVI@medstar.net. If you have clinically-specific questions, please contact your physician’s office.