Long term
Angioplasty and stenting (leg)
Draft — pending clinical reviewA narrowed artery in your leg was reopened (and sometimes stented); your puncture has healed and blood flow has been restored.
About this treatment →About the condition →Also for this procedure: Day of discharge →
Where you are now
The puncture has settled. This page covers keeping the treated artery open and protecting your circulation for the long term.
Pain and medication
No regular pain relief should be needed. Keep taking your antiplatelet and cholesterol medicines exactly as prescribed — with not smoking and staying active, they are what keep the artery open. Do not stop them without advice. [VERIFY]
Your dressings & stockings
The puncture site should be healed, leaving little or no mark.
Moving and activity
- Walking
- Walking is the best thing for your legs — walk regularly and build up your distance. [VERIFY]
- Driving
- Back to normal driving. [VERIFY]
- Work
- Back to your usual work, including heavier roles once comfortable. [VERIFY]
- Exercise
- Return to your normal exercise; regular walking especially helps the circulation. [VERIFY]
- Flying
- Long journeys are generally fine again. [VERIFY] Move around and stay hydrated.
When will I be back to normal?
Most people are back to normal within a couple of weeks and notice better walking. [VERIFY] The underlying artery disease still needs managing for life.
What is normal
- A faded puncture mark.
- Gradual improvement in how far you can walk before discomfort. [VERIFY]
What is not normal — contact us
Contact the clinic if you notice any of these:
- Return of the old symptoms — pain on walking, or a cold, pale foot — which can mean the artery is narrowing again. [VERIFY]
- A new pulsating or enlarging lump at the old puncture site. [VERIFY]
- A new non-healing sore or darkening area on the foot or toes.
Emergency — go to hospital now
Call an ambulance or go to the nearest hospital emergency department straight away if you have:
- The treated leg or foot suddenly becoming cold, white or blue, numb or severely painful.
- Chest pain or sudden breathlessness.
- Fainting or collapse.
Your follow-up
You will have periodic checks of the leg and pulses, and ultrasound scans as needed, to catch any narrowing early. [VERIFY the schedule]
Questions?
If anything worries you or you are unsure, it is always better to ask. Message the clinic on WhatsApp.