Minisymposium: Applied Mathematics in Stent Development

Abstract

Coronary artery disease is a global problem and devising effective treatments is the subject of intense research activity throughout the world. Over the past decade, stents have emerged as one of the most popular treatments. Acting as a supporting scaffold, these small mesh devices are now routinely inserted into arteries where the blood flow has become dangerously restricted. Stents have evolved from bare metal scaffolds to polymer coated drug-delivery vehicles and, more recently, sophisticated fully biodegradable drug delivery configurations. Despite these advances, significant opportunities to improve on arterial stent design remain. The relative success of coronary artery stenting has led to the emergence of stenting technology for the carotid, neural and peripheral vasculature. In addition, the adaptability of the stent concept has opened horizons beyond the vasculature, with stent technology now being developed for, amongst others, pulmonary, gastro-intestinal and structural heart applications.