First- and second-generation drug-eluting balloons for femoro-popliteal arterial obstructions: update of technique and results

J Cardiovasc Surg (Torino). 2013 Jun;54(3):327-32.

Abstract

The use of drug-eluting balloons for treatment of long-segment femoropopliteal artery obstructions has become widespread in recent years. The possibility to deliver a drug into the arterial wall with sustained antiproliferative effects, without leaving behind metal scaffolding, seems very promising. The current generation of drug-eluting balloons differs in the formulation of the drug (usually paclitaxel), technique of coating, and the elution excipients. Results of published randomized trials are reviewed in this report. A new innovative coating technique has been introduced recently. The PRIMUS® coronary drug-eluting balloon and the Legflow® peripheral drug-eluting balloon consist of paclitaxel nanoparticles that are embedded underneath the surface of the balloon as well as inside a new shellolic acid drug-release matrix. Risk for dislodgement of the paclitaxel particles is minimized in the newest generation of drug-eluting balloons. Short-term in vitro and in vivo results of this stable, coated balloon are promising, and large randomized trials have been started recently to gather more long-term and robust clinical data.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angioplasty, Balloon / methods*
  • Arterial Occlusive Diseases / physiopathology
  • Arterial Occlusive Diseases / therapy*
  • Blood Vessel Prosthesis*
  • Drug-Eluting Stents*
  • Femoral Artery*
  • Humans
  • Popliteal Artery*
  • Prosthesis Design
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vascular Patency