The biodegradable stent, called Absorb, was approved by the Food and Drug Administration last Tuesday.
Doug Taylor, a 73-year-old marathon runner, became the first patient treated with the stent in the U.S on Wednesday. David Rizik, MD, performed the procedure at HonorHealth Scottsdale (Ariz.) Shea Medical Center.
Unlike permanent metal stents, Absorb fully dissolves after two to three years. Abbott intends for its stent to limit the need for repeat procedures, decrease the time patients need to be on blood thinners, and help restore normal motion in the arteries.
Since absorbable stents are bulkier and less forgiving than metal ones — and therefore may not be beneficial for patients with exceptionally small or large arteries — researchers warn that cardiologists must take into account the size of patients’ vessels before recommending the dissolvable stent.
More articles on medical devices:
FDA approves new ultrasound device to treat essential tremor
Sterilization tool earns FDA approval for additional uses
FDA approves single-dose monthly injector for cholesterol drug
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.