Implantable devices in the coronary artery from metal to genes

Preliminary data from nonrandomized clinical trials suggest that, in selected subgroups of patients, the implantation of endovascular stents may improve the initial results of coronary dilatation, may successfully treat arterial dissection and abrupt closure, and may reduce the incidence of recurrent stenosis. The widespread use of stents remains limited, however, by the need for intensive anticoagulation to prevent arterial thrombosis. The development of sustained-release drug delivery systems and gene-transfer technology may enable local delivery of antithrombotic and antiproliferative therapies that would greatly increase the safety and applicability of these devices.