Coronary Heart Disease: Essential Post-Stent Care and Management

After undergoing stent placement for coronary heart disease, patients must follow specific medical guidelines to ensure long-term heart health. One of the most important aspects of post-stent care is dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT), which typically includes medications like aspirin and clopidogrel. Patients should take these medications regularly and consistently for at least one year following the procedure. Long-term use of one antiplatelet drug is also generally recommended to prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of future cardiac events.

Medication Management After Stent Placement

In addition to antiplatelet drugs, patients should continue taking statins to lower cholesterol levels and stabilize arterial plaques. Statins such as atorvastatin or rosuvastatin play a crucial role in preventing plaque progression and reducing cardiovascular risk. For optimal outcomes, it's advised to maintain low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) levels below 1.4 mmol/L. Achieving this target significantly lowers the chances of recurrent heart issues.

What If Cholesterol Levels Don't Improve?

Some patients may find that statins alone are not enough to reach their LDL-C goals. In such cases, adding ezetimibe — a cholesterol absorption inhibitor — can enhance lipid-lowering effects. If further intervention is necessary, PCSK9 inhibitors like evolocumab (Repatha) can be prescribed. These powerful injectable medications are highly effective in bringing cholesterol levels within the target range, even for patients with stubbornly high LDL-C.

Regular Monitoring Is Crucial

Consistent follow-up with a cardiologist is essential after stent implantation. Patients should schedule check-ups every six months to one year for comprehensive evaluations. These visits should include an electrocardiogram (EKG), echocardiogram, and blood tests to assess liver and kidney function, lipid levels, and blood glucose. Monitoring these biomarkers helps detect early signs of complications and ensures that treatment remains effective.

Stent placement is a life-saving procedure, but its long-term success depends heavily on patient adherence to medication, lifestyle changes, and regular medical follow-ups. By staying proactive about heart health, patients can significantly improve their quality of life and reduce the risk of future cardiovascular events.