A stent is a small, expandable tube that is inserted into a blocked or narrowed blood vessel to keep it open, allowing blood to flow freely. Stents are commonly used in the treatment of conditions such as coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and heart attacks. They are typically made of metal or plastic and can be coated with medication to prevent re-narrowing of the blood vessel. Stents are placed during a minimally invasive procedure called angioplasty, where a catheter with a deflated balloon is inserted into the blood vessel and used to expand the stent in place. Stents have revolutionized the treatment of cardiovascular diseases and have significantly improved patient outcomes.