Professional
Technical
IVT
bioresorbable scaffold
Temporary stent device designed to dissolve completely after providing initial vessel support.
Full Definition
A bioresorbable scaffold is a temporary implantable device that provides initial mechanical support to a treated vessel and then gradually dissolves over time, typically 2-3 years, leaving no permanent implant. These scaffolds are constructed from biodegradable materials such as polylactic acid or magnesium alloys. While offering theoretical advantages of restoring vessel vasomotion and eliminating long-term foreign body presence, clinical outcomes have been mixed compared to conventional drug-eluting stents.
Usage
Usage note: Prefer 'bioresorbable' over 'bioabsorbable' in current medical literature.
In Context
- "The bioresorbable scaffold was selected for the young patient to avoid permanent implant placement." — Treatment rationale
- "Follow-up imaging showed complete absorption of the bioresorbable scaffold with restored vessel geometry." — Long-term follow-up report
Also known as
bioabsorbable stent
dissolving stent
Contrasted with
permanent stent
metallic stent
Don't confuse with
drug-eluting stent