What is a stent used for in medical treatment?

A stent is a small mesh tube that is inserted into narrowed or blocked arteries to keep them open. The primary purpose of a stent is to improve blood flow in patients who have conditions such as coronary artery disease, where arteries become narrowed due to the buildup of plaque. By providing structural support to the artery walls, stents help prevent the arteries from collapsing or becoming narrow again, significantly enhancing blood circulation and reducing the risk of heart-related complications.

In contrast, the other options describe different medical interventions. Lowering cholesterol levels typically involves lifestyle changes and medications rather than a physical device like a stent. Artificial blood production and heart valve replacement are entirely different procedures focused on separate health issues, specifically addressing blood supply and heart function, respectively. Thus, a stent’s primary role is distinctly to maintain artery patency and facilitate adequate blood flow.