Design refinement and pre-clinical testing of a radiopaque and fully resorbable stent
Project Lead
Professor Laurence Meagher, Monash University
Project Team
Dr Gregory Szto, Peninsula Private Hospital; Bruna Cambraia Garms, Monash University
Industry Partner
Dr Greg Szto Pty Ltd
Project Summary
Problem
Current coronary stents pose challenges such as in-stent restenosis and late thrombosis, leading to higher than desired complication rates and mortality. There is an unmet clinical need for a coronary stent that can reduce long-term complications associated with permanent implants.
Solution
Led by Professor Laurence Meagher and Dr Gregory Szto, this project aims to develop a fully resorbable and radiopaque coronary stent. By refining stent design through finite element analysis and polymer coating design and optimisation, the team intends to conduct pre-clinical studies in rabbit models to assess acute and sub-chronic responses. Long-term performance will be evaluated in large animal models, specifically pigs, ensuring the stent's safety and efficacy over time"
Impact
The successful development of a fully resorbable coronary stent could revolutionise the stent market by offering a temporary solution that degrades within 12 months, thereby reducing adverse events and improving patient satisfaction. This innovation addresses current limitations of permanent stents, potentially capturing a share of the expanding stent market. By engaging clinicians and industry stakeholders, the project ensures alignment with clinical needs and enhances the likelihood of widespread adoption, ultimately benefiting patients and healthcare systems through improved outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.