The Particulars: Drug-eluting bioresorbable vascular scaffolds (BVS)—which naturally dissolve into the blood stream within 18 to 24 months—have been found to effectively treat coronary artery disease. However, studies have yet to determine the effectiveness of BVS in peripheral arterial disease.
Data Breakdown: Among patients with PAD participating in a study, 100% of arteries treated with BVS remained open at 6 months follow-up. Blockages were reduced from an average of 80% prior to treatment to 13% after treatment. Use of BVS also helped avoid the breaks, prolonged irritation, delayed in-stent restenosis, and inferences with MRI imaging or surgery that are associated with permanent stents.
Take Home Pearl: Treatment of PAD with BVS appears to be effective in opening blocked arteries, while avoiding some of the side effects associated with permanent stents.
