In 2008, the FDA approved the use of the Endeavor Drug-Eluting Stent; this stent that has been changing the way narrowing coronary arteries are treated ever since then. This new stent provides a way for patients to be treated for this condition one time and not have to continue undergoing angioplasties each year - a problem that no one should have to deal with.

The Endeavor Drug-Eluting Stent works very simply; it has been referred to as acting as a sort of scaffolding that enables the blood vessels to be held open. Patients desiring to have the stent implanted undergo an angioplasty as to allow for the implantation. A catheter is used to insert a small balloon surrounded by a metal tube. When the balloon reaches the correct place, it is inflated, and the mesh attaches to the wall of the blood vessel. This mesh allows for the coronary arteries to be expanded.

An important benefit of this new stent is that it is coated with Zotarolimus, a medication that helps to prevent the artery from shrinking again once the new tissue begins to form. Preventing the arteries from shrinking back to their previous size in turn prevents the patient from needing to have another angioplasty done. The only negative to this medication is that it can cause blood clots. However, to prevent blood clots from forming, patients are prescribed blood thinners to be used for six to 12 months after implantation.

If you are suffering from narrowing coronary arteries and are in need of a stent, contact your healthcare provider today to find out if the Endeavor Drug-Eluting Stent would be a good option for you.

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