What is the difference between an Angioplasty and a Stent?
A stent takes the angioplasty a step further. A stent itself is a stainless tube with holes in it. The stent is placed on the tip of the catheter that expands and pushes against the inner wall of the coronary artery once the balloon is inserted and inflated. Coronary artery stents usually open up the diseased area of the artery into a smoother and bigger opening compared to angioplasty reducing the risk of restenosis (re-blockage).