Deployment of Interwoven Stents in an Artery With Moderate Stenosis

Interwoven self-expandable stents demonstrate distinct characteristics compared with laser-cut ones. In this study, the deployment of interwoven stent in a stenotic artery was evaluated through finite element analysis. Moreover, a laser-cut stent with the same nominal dimensions as the interwoven one was simulated to assess the effect of manufacturing method on mechanical behavior of self-expandable stent. The results showed that relative sliding between struts reduced the strain on the interwoven stent under compressive loadings and larger strain occurred on the struts of laser-cut stent due to its restricted longitudinal extension. After deployment, the interwoven stent restored the patency of the stenotic artery; however, the dogbone shape was observed immediately after the releasing of the stent, which may lead to less lumen gains and higher risk of arterial dissection at both ends of the stent. Lesion preparation prior to the deployment of the stent may help relieve underexpansion of the stent.