Biocompatible materials for cardiovascular stents

One of the most common interventions performed today is intravascular stenting. A stent is a small tubular device placed into a blood vessel to hold it open. This review covers various aspects of stents from how it is placed into the vessel (e.g. the coronary artery) to the biocompatible materials used (e.g. metal). Mechanical considerations are also being discussed as well as comparison between self-expanding stents and drug eluting stents versus resorbable stents. Other latest research are also covered such as a 'smart stent monitor' based on sensors providing real-time feedback.