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Biodegradable Stents in Companion Animals: A Systematic Scoping Review
Daiana R Cardoso1,2,3,4, Alexandre Barros5, André Meneses1,4
1I-MVET Research in Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lusófona University-Lisbon University Centre, Lisbon, Portugal.
Veterinary Medicine International
|April 14, 2025
Summary
Biodegradable stents (BDSs) show potential in companion animals, with most studies in animal models. Clinical use is limited but suggests low complication rates for these advanced veterinary devices.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Biomaterials Science
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Biodegradable stents (BDSs) offer temporary support, potentially reducing complications associated with permanent implants.
- Their application in companion animals is an emerging area with limited clinical data.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the scientific literature on the feasibility and behavior of BDSs in companion animals.
- To identify current research trends, applications, and biomaterials used in veterinary BDS studies.
Main Methods:
- A systematic scoping review was conducted following PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
- Literature searches were performed in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus.
- Studies focused on BDS usage in companion animal urinary, respiratory, and digestive systems.
Main Results:
- 21 of 233 identified articles met inclusion criteria; 90% used animal models for human translation.
- Applications included urinary (42.9%), vascular (19%), esophageal (14.3%), choledochal duct (19%), and tracheal (4.8%) stenting.
- Polylactic acid (PLA) was the predominant biomaterial; most studies reported low, self-limiting complications.
Conclusions:
- The review summarizes BDS use in companion animals, noting a research gap in clinical applications.
- Most studies were preclinical, but findings suggest BDSs are feasible with minimal complications in veterinary medicine.
- Further research is needed to establish the full clinical potential of BDSs in small animal medicine.
