Coronary intervention has evolved beyond the traditional permanent metallic stent. In suitable patients, stent alternatives may reduce long-term metal burden, preserve vessel physiology, and simplify future options.
A next-generation resorbable scaffold that supports the vessel during healing and then gradually dissolves, leaving nothing behind. This “leave-nothing” strategy aims to combine early support with long-term vessel restoration.
A bioadaptor provides temporary scaffolding and then allows the vessel to progressively regain motion (restoring pulsatility and adaptive remodeling). This contrasts with permanent “caging,” aiming to minimise late events linked to chronically rigid segments.
A DCB delivers anti-restenotic drug directly into the arterial wall and leaves no implant behind. This can be advantageous in:
What is a stent alternative?
A stent alternative is a treatment such as a drug-coated balloon, bioadaptor or bioresorbable scaffold that restores blood flow without leaving a permanent metal stent.
How does a drug-coated balloon (DCB) work?
It delivers anti-restenotic drug into the vessel wall during balloon inflation and leaves no implant behind.
How is Freesolve® different from a stent?
It supports the artery initially, then gradually resorbs, unlike a permanent metallic stent.
Is DYNAMX™ available in Australia?
Yes. Availability is expanding in selected centres; suitability depends on coronary anatomy and clinical context.
About the Author
Dr Cuneyt Ada is an interventional cardiologist in Sydney with a focus on complex coronary interventions. He specialises in minimally invasive alternatives to bypass surgery, advanced stent technologies, and transfusion-free coronary care for patients, including Jehovah’s Witnesses.