Biodegradable PTX-PLGA-coated magnesium stent for benign esophageal stricture: An experimental study

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Gastroenterology
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Traditional metal stents require secondary removal, increasing patient risk.
• Biodegradable stents offer a promising alternative by degrading over time.
• Esophageal strictures necessitate effective stenting solutions to maintain patency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and evaluate a novel biodegradable composite stent for benign esophageal strictures.
• To assess the mechanical properties, drug release profile, and biocompatibility of a magnesium-based stent coated with paclitaxel-loaded PLGA.
• To investigate the in vivo efficacy of the stent in maintaining esophageal patency and reducing inflammation.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a magnesium-based braided stent with a surface coating of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) containing paclitaxel (PTX).
• In vitro evaluation of radial force, drug release kinetics in phosphate-buffered saline at different pH levels, and fibroblast viability.
• In vivo assessment in a rabbit model of caustic-induced esophageal stricture, evaluating esophageal patency, inflammatory cell infiltration, and fibrous tissue formation over 3 weeks.

Main Results:

• The PTX-PLGA coated stent exhibited significantly increased radial force (83 N) compared to uncoated stents (33 N).
• Continuous in vitro release of PTX was observed over 28 days, with higher cumulative release at lower pH.
• In vivo studies demonstrated maintained esophageal patency, reduced inflammatory cell infiltration, and decreased fibrous tissue in the stented group compared to controls.

Conclusions:

• The PTX-PLGA-coated Mg stent is a safe and effective biodegradable option for treating benign esophageal strictures.
• The stent's design enhances radial force and provides sustained drug release, promoting healing.
• This novel stent avoids secondary removal procedures, improving patient outcomes.