The balloon is then inflated and the stent is opened and pressed into place against the artery wall, acting as a vascular support. The balloon is deflated and removed, while the stent remains in place allowing for increased circulation. Sometimes more than one stent is used. These devices are permanent, and can only be removed surgically. Thrombolytic Therapy Thrombolytic drugs actually dissolve clots to restore blood flow.
Closer observation is necessary due to the increased risk of bleeding complications.
This form of treatment may require you to lay flat from several hours to several days. Medication will be administered to you to try to make you as comfortable as possible. Complications Bleeding at the puncture site remains the most common complication. Bleeding could cause a bruise at the puncture site, but it is usually self limiting and requires no treatment. Other rare complications include infection, contrast reaction, clot formation, and damage to the artery which may require surgical repair.