You may be familiar with drug-eluting stents (DES) that are used in the coronary arteries and other blood vessels. The framework of the tiny stents helps open narrowed arteries to improve blood flow. Over time, a medication is released from the surface of DES to help keep the artery from narrowing again.But for people with peripheral artery disease (PAD), a similar treatment option is gaining in popularity. Instead of a drug-eluting stent, a drug-coated balloon is inserted into the narrowed artery with a catheter. In a procedure called angioplasty, the balloon is then inflated at the site of the blockage and blood flow is improved.
To continue reading this article or issue you must be a paid subscriber.
Sign in
