Is there a lifespan for cardiac stents?

A cardiac stent is typically a small, tube-like device made of metal, used to support narrowed or blocked blood vessels in coronary artery disease to restore blood flow. The lifespan of a cardiac stent is not fixed. Once the stent has been successfully covered by vascular endothelial cells and stabilized within the blood vessel, it will remain there long-term and can theoretically last permanently. However, the exact duration is closely related to the individual patient's condition.

Generally, a cardiac stent can last around 5 to 10 years, but the specific duration must be determined based on the patient's symptoms, physical tolerance, and treatment outcomes. If the patient's condition remains stable after surgery and blood pressure, lipid levels, and blood glucose are all within normal ranges, the stent may last even longer. Conversely, if the patient's condition is not well controlled, the stent may need to be replaced in a relatively short time, possibly within 5 years. Additionally, in the long term, patients may face the risk of the blood vessel narrowing again, which might require further treatment such as medication adjustments or repeat surgery.