In order to reduce the risk of a patient suffering an embolism during treatment for a stroke or heart attack, the STENT-NET project proposes a new approach based on the implantation of a bioabsorbable mesh with slow-release capability to safely deliver the correct dose of a post-operative drug.

The overall goal which the project seeks to achieve is the development of a functional prototype stent with a coating of a biodegradable nanofibre mesh which can release post-operative drugs. The successfully developed prototype must possess the following properties:

• Maintain the mechanical properties of the stent and its re-crossing ability.
• Slow release of pharmaceuticals to prevent restenosis and thrombosis (anti-proliferative drugs from the limus family).
• Maintain blood flow through the side vessels which may be covered by the stent.
• It must be bioabsorbable.
• Prevent the risk of embolisation.

In order to successfully achieve the project’s objectives, the stent will be developed using electrospinning technology which allows the creation of a polymer nanofibre veil by applying a high electrical current to a precursor polymer solution which can easily be additivated with the proposed limus pharmaceuticals. The ultimate goal is to develop a new stent based on those which are already commercially available and which incorporates a coating of biodegradable nanofibres strong enough to withstand the mechanical requirements, release drugs and prevent the risk of embolisation after implantation.