Promising PTFE-coating technology of Optimus-CVS™ stents: The new player for congenital heart disease interventions

The use of covered stents (CVS) in congenital heart disease (CHD) interventions is increasing but intrinsic properties of commercially available material remain not optimal. The Optimus-CVS™ (AndraTec GmbH, Koblenz, Germany) is a new balloon-expandable, non-premounted, Cobalt-Chromium stent with patented hybrid-cell design, innovative end-free Nano-PTFE sandwich-covering, and competitive deliverability features.

Three patients with CHD received Optimus-CVS during December 2020 at our institution. Indications for CVS implantation were relief of complex aortic recoarctation (57 ​mm long Optimus-CVS-XL), treatment of intra-stent intimal proliferation in Fontan circulation (48 ​mm long Optimus-CVS-XXL), and as a bail-out for conduit rupture during pulmonary valve implantation (33 ​mm long Optimus-CVS-XXL). Procedures were successful and straightforward. Target diameter was achieved and stent shortening was minimal and as expected. No stent failure was recorded on short-term follow-up.

Optimus-CVS appears to be a reliable high-performing CVS alternative in major CHD situations where CVS are needed. Optimus-CVS offers interesting construction characteristics, smart covering design, and the largest portfolio in terms of diameters and length optimizing lesion care and improving outcomes.