Stents have been a game changer in the field of cardiology and have revolutionized the treatment of various cardiac and vascular diseases.

The stent is a tube-like device that is implanted in a narrowed or blocked artery to keep it open and allow the free flow of blood to the heart or other parts of the body.

The need for biodegradable stents

While stents are highly effective in restoring blood flow, they come with their own set of complications.

One significant issue is the long-term risks associated with the implantation of non-biodegradable stents, which tend to remain in the body permanently. These risks include in-stent restenosis, stent thrombosis, and chronic inflammation.

Biodegradable stents were developed to overcome these issues.

These stents are made from materials that can be absorbed and broken down by the body over time, eliminating the need for a permanent implant and reducing the long-term risks associated with non-biodegradable stents.

The first-generation biodegradable stent

In 2012, the first biodegradable stent, known as the Absorb GT1 Bioresorbable Vascular Scaffold System, was approved by the US FDA.

The Absorb stent was made from a polymer called polylactic acid, which was absorbed by the body within three years of implantation.

While the Absorb stent was a significant breakthrough, it was not without its issues.

Studies showed that patients who received the Absorb stent had a higher risk of complications, such as in-stent restenosis and stent thrombosis, compared to patients who received non-biodegradable stents.

The second-generation biodegradable stent

The second-generation biodegradable stent, known as the Magmaris Magnesium Scaffold, was recently approved by the US FDA. The Magmaris stent is made from a magnesium alloy that is gradually dissolved by the body within 12-24 months after implantation.

The Magmaris stent overcomes some of the issues associated with the first-generation biodegradable stent.

Studies have shown that patients who received the Magmaris stent had a significantly lower risk of complications, such as in-stent restenosis and stent thrombosis, compared to patients who received the first-generation biodegradable stent.

The benefits of biodegradable stents

The main benefit of biodegradable stents is that they do not remain in the body permanently, reducing the long-term risks associated with non-biodegradable stents.

Additionally, biodegradable stents are more flexible than non-biodegradable stents, allowing for better adaptability to the natural movements of the artery.

Another benefit of biodegradable stents is that they eliminate the need for dual antiplatelet therapy, which is usually required for at least 12 months after implantation with non-biodegradable stents.

Dual antiplatelet therapy is associated with an increased risk of bleeding and can be challenging for some patients to adhere to.

The future of biodegradable stents

The development of biodegradable stents has opened up a new realm of possibilities in the field of cardiology.

As technology continues to advance, future generations of biodegradable stents may offer even more significant benefits, such as better biocompatibility and improved drug delivery capabilities.

Biodegradable stents also have potential applications beyond the treatment of coronary artery disease. They may be useful in the treatment of peripheral arterial disease, aneurysms, and other vascular conditions.

Conclusion

The approval of the second-generation biodegradable stent by the US FDA marks a significant milestone in the evolution of stent technology.

The Magmaris Magnesium Scaffold offers a promising new approach to the treatment of coronary artery disease, with reduced risks and improved patient outcomes.

The development of biodegradable stents represents a significant step forward in the field of cardiology and has the potential to improve the lives of millions of patients worldwide.