Iliac artery stenting is a modern minimally invasive procedure aimed at restoring patency of the arteries supplying blood to the lower extremities. This intervention eliminates narrowing or occlusion of the vessels caused by atherosclerosis or other pathologies and significantly improves the patient’s quality of life.
When is iliac artery stenting indicated?
Main indications for the procedure include:
- Atherosclerosis of the arteries. Narrowing or complete occlusion of the iliac vessels due to cholesterol plaque formation.
- Chronic lower limb ischemia. Manifested by pain, numbness, trophic ulcers, and impaired blood supply to the legs.
- Complications of diabetes mellitus. Arterial occlusion associated with diabetic angiopathy.
- Thrombosis. Formation of blood clots in the iliac arteries.
Advantages of iliac artery stenting in Belarus
- Minimally invasive approach. The procedure is performed through a small puncture without open surgery.
- Rapid restoration of blood flow. Improved perfusion of the lower extremities.
- Short recovery period. Most patients return to normal daily activities within a few days.
- High effectiveness. Sustained improvement of arterial patency and reduction of ischemic symptoms.
How is the procedure performed?
Preparation for stenting
The patient undergoes a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, including:
- Duplex vascular ultrasound to assess blood flow and the degree of stenosis.
- Angiography for precise visualization of the affected arterial segment.
- Blood tests to evaluate coagulation status and overall health.
- Before the procedure, antiplatelet agents or anticoagulants are prescribed.
The stenting procedure
- Anesthesia. Local anesthesia is applied at the puncture site.
- Catheter insertion. Through a puncture in the femoral artery, a catheter is advanced to the affected iliac artery under fluoroscopic guidance.
- Balloon angioplasty. A balloon is inflated at the site of narrowing to expand the vessel.
- Stent deployment. The stent is delivered via the catheter, expanded within the dilated artery, and fixed in place to ensure continuous blood flow.
- Control angiography. Performed to confirm correct stent positioning and restoration of blood flow.
The procedure usually takes about 1–2 hours.
Post-procedural period
- Hospital stay. The patient remains under medical observation for 1–2 days.
- Pharmacological therapy. Antiplatelet agents (such as aspirin and clopidogrel) are prescribed to prevent thrombus formation.
- Physical activity. Avoidance of stress on the puncture site is recommended for 1–2 weeks.
- Diet and lifestyle. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in fats and sugars is advised.
- Regular follow-up. Control vascular ultrasound examinations are required to monitor arterial status.
Outcomes of the procedure
- Improved blood supply. Symptoms of lower limb ischemia are significantly reduced or eliminated.
- Reduced risk of complications. Lower likelihood of thrombosis and critical limb ischemia.
- Long-term effect. Modern stents provide durable vessel patency but require ongoing surveillance.
Iliac artery stenting is a modern and effective method for treating lower limb ischemia. The procedure improves blood flow, reduces the risk of serious complications, and requires minimal recovery time while delivering favorable clinical outcomes. Adherence to medical recommendations, healthy nutrition, and regular follow-up examinations help maintain vascular health and prevent recurrence.
In Belarus, iliac artery stenting is performed in advanced vascular centers by experienced specialists. The use of state-of-the-art technologies and an individualized approach to each patient ensure successful intervention and rapid recovery.
