Paclitaxel-Eluting Stent Prevents Restenosis

Restenosis, the re-narrowing of an artery, is a major concern following balloon angioplasty and the instillation of coronary stents. Following coronary stenting, smooth-muscle cells proliferate and extracellular matrix production increases. This is known as neointimal hyperplasia and is the main cause of restenosis following stinting. This article describes the success of trials utilizing a polymer-based stent which slowly delivers Paclitaxel to the target site. Paclitaxel is an agent that interrupts cellular replication, thus inhibiting neointimal hyperplasia. This device is very promising for the prevention of restenosis after the treatment of atherosclerotic lesions.

Full Article:
http://content.nejm.org/cgi/content/full/350/3/221