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Hospital Procedures

Stenting –
Opening blocked arteries

Stenting, also called Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. During PCI, a small balloon is inflated to open the artery, and a stent—a tiny mesh tube—is placed to keep it open. This restores normal blood flow, reduces chest pain, and lowers the risk of heart attack.

Stenting

Why is it done?

Your cardiologist may recommend stenting (PCI) if:

    • You have significant narrowing or blockage in your coronary arteries
    • You experience symptoms such as chest pain (angina) or shortness of breath
    • You need urgent treatment during or after a heart attack

Stenting

What to expect during the test

    • A local anaesthetic is applied at the access site (wrist or groin)
    • A catheter is guided to the heart, and a balloon is inflated to open the artery
    • A stent is placed to keep the artery open, providing immediate symptom relief reducing chest pain and improving blood flow
    • The procedure usually takes 30–90 minutes, and you will be monitored throughout

Stenting

After the procedure

    • Most patients stay in hospital overnight for observation
    • You may need to take medications to prevent blood clots and protect the stent
    • Your doctor will provide guidance on activity and follow-up care

At Riverina Cardiology, PCI is performed in a hospital setting as part of our comprehensive cardiac care at Calvary Riverina Hospital / Regional Imaging and Wagga Wagga Base Hospital, ensuring regional patients have access to advanced treatment without travelling to metropolitan centres.

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