What is a disadvantage of stents?

Some potential disadvantages or risks of coronary stents include:

- Restenosis - The stented artery can re-narrow over time due to scar tissue growth, requiring repeat procedure(s). This risk is lower with drug-eluting stents.

- Blood clots - Stents have a higher risk of blood clots forming inside them, so long-term antiplatelet meds are required. Stopping these meds prematurely increases clot risk.

- Stent thrombosis - A serious blood clot inside the stent can suddenly block blood flow, causing heart attack or damage.

- Bleeding - Antiplatelet and anticoagulant meds needed with stents increase bleeding risk. This must be balanced against clot risks.

- Infection - Very rare, but stents have a small infection risk during placement which can be serious.

- Stent fracture - In some cases, physical stress can cause the stent to fracture which may require repeat stenting.

- Stent migration - The stent can sometimes shift position or migrate out of place, decreasing effectiveness.

- Sensitivity reactions - Some patients may have allergic reactions to the stent's drug coatings or metal alloys.

- Chronic discomfort - The stent may cause a feeling of chest pressure long-term in some patients.

- Cost - Stents and associated long-term meds may have considerable costs, often requiring insurance. Is coronary stent a major surgery? 

No, coronary stent placement is considered a minimally invasive procedure, not major surgery. It involves inserting a thin tube called a catheter through an artery to the heart. There is no surgical incision needed. Recovery is much faster than open heart surgery. However, it is an invasive medical procedure with some risks.