Feasibility of biodegradable polymer everolimus-eluting stent overexpansion: the SYNOVER study

Despite advancements in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), stent-related complications continue to occur, emphasizing the necessity for stent optimization. This study employed optical coherence tomography (OCT) to investigate the safety and efficacy of overexpanding the biodegradable polymer everolimus-eluting stent (SYNERGY; Boston Scientific, Marlborough, Massachusetts, USA) stent in large coronary arteries.

This single-center observational study enrolled patients with ischemic heart disease requiring stent placement in large coronary arteries (≥4.5 mm). The patients underwent PCI guided by OCT using SYNERGY stents, incorporating postdilation techniques to enhance expansion. Stent parameters were evaluated through OCT imaging. The primary endpoints focused on the maximum stent diameter and the maximum percentage of overexpansion. Secondary clinical outcomes, including death, myocardial infarction (MI), revascularization, stent thrombosis, cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs), and heart failure readmissions, were monitored with follow-ups at 1, 6, and 12 months, as well as annually thereafter.

A total of 12 patients (8427 struts) were analyzed after successful PCI. OCT imaging showed adequate stent expansion, maximum stent diameter was 4.5 ± 0.2 mm, with a maximum expansion of 113.2 ± 4.1%), with no definite stent fractures or major edge dissections. During follow-up, one patient experienced an MI, but no stent thrombosis, target lesion revascularization, CVA, or death were reported.

Application of OCT-guided PCI with SYNERGY stents is safe and effective for treating large coronary arteries. It facilitates optimal stent expansion and yields favorable long-term outcomes. These results advocate for an expanded application of OCT-guided PCI in complex anatomical situations, showcasing the performance of SYNERGY stents in cases of excess expansion.