Word of the Day: Stent
A stent is a small, tube-shaped medical device used to keep a narrowed or blocked passageway in the body open. Even though it’s tiny—often no bigger than a spring—its purpose is crucial: restoring normal flow where something has become obstructed.
In medical interpretation, “stent” appears constantly, especially in cardiac, renal, and gastrointestinal contexts, so understanding its meaning and usage is essential.
What Exactly Is a Stent?
A stent is typically made of metal mesh or plastic. Once placed inside a vessel or duct, it acts as a support structure, preventing the walls from collapsing or narrowing again.
Think of it like propping open a clogged pipe, but inside the body.
Where Are Stents Used?
Stents can be used in many parts of the body:
1. Cardiovascular system
- To keep coronary arteries open in patients with heart disease
- Often used after angioplasty to prevent the artery from narrowing again
2. Urinary system
- To keep the ureter open when kidney stones or swelling block urine flow
3. Biliary system
- To keep bile ducts open so bile can drain properly from the liver
4. Digestive tract
- To keep the esophagus, colon, or other GI structures open if narrowed by tumors or inflammation
Types of Stents
- Bare-metal stent: A simple metal mesh tube
- Drug-eluting stent: Releases medication to prevent re-narrowing
- Plastic or metal stents (non-cardiac): Used in ducts or digestive structures
Why It Matters for Interpreters
“Stent” seems like a straightforward term, but it appears in contexts full of complexity:
- Heart surgery consults
- ER conversations about chest pain
- Urology procedures
- GI oncology discussions
Understanding not just the word, but what it does, helps provide clear, accurate interpretation for patients and providers.
Example Sentence (EN)
“The cardiologist recommended placing a stent to keep the artery open and improve blood flow.”
Ejemplo en español (ES)
“El cardiólogo recomendó colocar un stent para mantener la arteria abierta y mejorar el flujo sanguíneo.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Confusing stent with stint (different word entirely)
- ❌ Calling it a catéter — although related, a stent is not a catheter
- ❌ Saying estén (verb form of estar) — pronunciation traps new interpreters all the time