Coronary Stent (PCI)
冠状动脉支架植入
Duration
3-5 days (including hospital stay)
Recovery
1-2 weeks for basic recovery, 4-6 weeks for full activity
Savings
~75% vs US
Average savings compared to US prices
Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) with stent placement is one of the most commonly performed cardiac procedures in China. Chinese hospitals use both international (Medtronic, Abbott, Boston Scientific) and high-quality domestic drug-eluting stents. Following China's 2020 national volume-based procurement, stent prices dropped dramatically, making the total procedure cost 70-80% lower than in the US while maintaining international quality standards.
Cardiac Assessment & Angiography
Non-invasive tests (ECG, echocardiogram, stress test) followed by coronary angiography to visualize blockages. The interventional cardiologist determines the number and location of stents needed.
Duration: 1 dayStent Placement Procedure
Through a small puncture in the wrist (radial access) or groin, a catheter is guided to the blocked coronary artery. A drug-eluting stent is deployed to open the blockage and restore blood flow. The procedure is done under local anesthesia with sedation.
Duration: 1-2 hoursPost-Procedure Monitoring
24-48 hours of hospital monitoring with ECG, blood tests (troponin), and observation. Dual antiplatelet therapy is prescribed. The cardiologist provides a comprehensive report for your home physician.
Duration: 2-3 days inpatient- 70-80% cost savings due to China's volume-based stent procurement program
- Same drug-eluting stent technology used in top global cardiac centers
- High-volume catheterization labs with experienced interventional cardiologists
- Radial access technique reduces recovery time and complications
- Standard cardiac procedure risks including bleeding, arrhythmia, and rare stent thrombosis
- Requires lifelong dual antiplatelet therapy (aspirin + clopidogrel) — medication must be continued at home
- Follow-up cardiac evaluation needed at 3-6 months
- Not suitable for complex multi-vessel disease — bypass surgery may be recommended
Prices shown are approximate ranges for reference only. Actual costs vary by hospital, complexity, and individual patient needs. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical decisions.