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Updated: Aug 2, 2026
Engineering Biological-Based Vascular Grafts Using a Pulsatile Bioreactor
Published on: June 14, 2011
Moving away from metal: Step toward the future with bioresorbable vascular scaffolds and novel antiproliferative
Blair E Warren1,2, Kong-Teng Tan1,2, Dheeraj K Rajan1,2
1Department of Medical Imaging, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Background:
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a common source of morbidity and mortality globally and is expected to raise increase in prevalence. Many endovascular techniques exist to manage PAD; however, there remains room for improvement, especially as it relates to below-the-knee vessels. Recent evidence and devices are leading to a resurgence of interest in bioresorbable vascular scaffolds and the -limus family of antiproliferative drugs in the PAD treatment space.
Methods:
This nonsystematic review examines emerging technology for treatment of PAD with a specific focus on below-the-knee vessels and bioresorbable vascular scaffolds. Additional emerging and early technology such as novel delivery platforms are also briefly discussed with directions of future research highlighted.
Results:
Bioresorbable vascular scaffold biomechanics and history are highlighted. Foundational knowledge of antiproliferative agents and evolving agents in peripheral vascular disease are also described.
Conclusions:
Bioresorbable vascular scaffolds are an additional endovascular tool for the treatment of peripheral vascular disease. The integration with an antiproliferative agent may result in improved patency and performance; however, there is a paucity of data in the literature at present.
