Coronary bioresorbable metallic stents: Advancements and future perspectives

Percutaneous coronary intervention is a critical treatment for coronary artery disease, particularly myocardial infarction, and is highly recommended in clinical guidelines. Traditional metallic stents, although initially effective, remain permanently in the artery and can lead to complications such as in-stent restenosis, late thrombosis, and chronic inflammation. Given the temporary need for stenting and the potential for late complications, bioresorbable stents have emerged as a promising alternative. However, bioresorbable polymeric stents have encountered significant clinical challenges due to their low mechanical strength and ductility, which increase the risks of thrombosis and local inflammation. Consequently, bioresorbable metals are being considered as a superior option for coronary stents. This review examines the progress of bioresorbable metallic stents from both preclinical and clinical perspectives, aiming to provide a theoretical foundation for future research. Iron, zinc, and magnesium are the primary materials used for these stents. Zinc-based bioresorbable stents have shown promise in preclinical studies due to their biocompatibility and vascular protective properties, although human clinical studies are still limited. Magnesium-based stents have demonstrated positive clinical outcomes, being fully absorbed within 12 months and showing low rates of late lumen loss and target lesion failure at 6- and 12-months post-implantation. Initial trials of iron-based stents have indicated favorable mid-term safety and efficacy, with complete absorption by the body within three years and consistent luminal expansion beyond six months post-implantation. Despite these advancements, further trials are needed for comprehensive validation. In conclusion, while current materials do not fully meet the ideal requirements, ongoing research should focus on developing bioresorbable stents with enhanced performance characteristics to better meet clinical needs.