3D-Printed Poly (P-Dioxanone) Stent for Endovascular Application: In Vitro Evaluations

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Engineering
• Medical Device Innovation
• Vascular Surgery

Background:

• Cerebrovascular disorders require innovative treatments like bioresorbable stents (BRSs).
• Current poly-l-lactide (PLLA) BRSs are primarily for coronary use and may lack suitability for cerebrovascular applications.
• Achieving optimal mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and bioabsorbability in BRSs remains a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and fabricate novel 3D-printed BRSs for cerebrovascular diseases using poly (p-dioxanone) (PPDO).
• To enhance the hydrolytic stability of PPDO-based BRSs without compromising mechanical properties or biocompatibility.
• To evaluate the anti-stenosis potential and endothelialization capabilities of the novel BRSs.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of 3D-printed BRSs using biocompatible poly (p-dioxanone) (PPDO).
• Incorporation of bis-(2,6-diisopropylphenyl) carbodiimide (stabaxol®-1) to enhance PPDO hydrolytic stability.
• In vitro cell experiments to assess endothelial cell attachment and proliferation on the BRSs.
• Adjustment of 3D printing parameters to control strut thickness for small-diameter vascular suitability.

Main Results:

• Novel 3D-printed BRSs were successfully fabricated using PPDO, offering a new approach for cerebrovascular applications.
• The addition of stabaxol®-1 improved hydrolytic stability of PPDO without negatively impacting mechanical properties or biocompatibility.
• In vitro studies confirmed excellent endothelial cell attachment and proliferation on the PPDO-based BRSs.
• The 3D-printed BRSs demonstrated desirable flexibility and controlled strut thickness for small vessel compatibility.

Conclusions:

• 3D-printed PPDO-based BRSs represent a promising novel application for treating cerebrovascular disorders.
• These BRSs exhibit anti-stenosis properties and support vessel endothelialization.
• The developed BRSs offer a customizable, flexible, and biocompatible alternative to existing stent technologies.