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Numerical Simulation and Optimization of Drug-Coated Balloon Inflation for Vascular Stenosis
Chenzhao Zhang1, Yuanyuan Zhang1, Shengzhang Wang1,2
1College of Biomedical Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China.
Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland)
|March 28, 2026
Summary
This study developed a numerical model to optimize drug-coated balloon (DCB) implantation for paclitaxel delivery in stenotic blood vessels. Longer dilation times increase drug absorption, with specific optimal times determined for varying stenosis levels.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiovascular Research
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Drug-coated balloons (DCBs) are used to treat stenotic blood vessels.
- Optimizing paclitaxel delivery from DCBs is crucial for effective treatment.
- Understanding drug diffusion dynamics in stenotic vessels is essential for surgical planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a numerical model for DCB implantation.
- To quantify paclitaxel transfer and diffusion in stenotic vessels.
- To determine optimal balloon dilation times for varying degrees of stenosis.
Main Methods:
- Finite element modeling and numerical simulation techniques were employed.
- A computational model was developed to simulate paclitaxel concentration changes over time.
- Simulations were conducted for vessels with different stenosis rates (10%, 30%, 50%).
Main Results:
- Increased balloon dilation time resulted in greater paclitaxel absorption into the vessel wall.
- Paclitaxel gradually diffused evenly throughout the vessel post-balloon withdrawal.
- Paclitaxel concentration in the vessel wall decreased over time.
Conclusions:
- Optimal balloon dilation times were identified: 20s (10% stenosis), 60s (30% stenosis), and 80s (50% stenosis).
- These times correspond to effective treatment durations of 6 weeks, 6 weeks, and 4 weeks, respectively.
- The numerical model provides a reference for clinical surgical planning of DCB implantation.
