[Position statement on bioresorbable vascular scaffolds in Portugal]

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular medicine
• Interventional cardiology

Background:

• Bioresorbable vascular scaffolds (BVS) are a novel device for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).
• This position statement reviews available BVS evidence and proposes guidelines for Portugal.

Framework:

• Consensus reached through expert working group, evidence review, and case discussions.
• BVS demonstrate potential for physiological and clinical improvements in select patient populations.
• Encouraging data exist regarding BVS durability and long-term safety.

Implementation:

• Appropriate indications include young patients, diabetics, specific artery locations (e.g., LAD), long/diffuse lesions, and hybrid strategies.
• Less consensual but possible uses involve small collateral branches and stabilized acute coronary syndromes.
• Inappropriate uses identified as left main disease, tortuosity, and severe calcification.

Implications:

• BVS represent a viable treatment option with encouraging applicability and results.
• Technical adaptations and strict adherence to appropriate indications are necessary.
• Outcome monitoring and development of clinical guidelines based on high-quality registries are essential.