McLaren Macomb, through the health system-owned McLaren Cardiovascular Institute, has begun offering the only FDA-approved fully, naturally-dissolving heart stent as a treatment option for patients suffering from coronary artery disease.
The first medical device of its kind, the Abbott Absorbâ„¢ bioresorbable stent has produced enhanced clinical outcomes in patients without the concern of a permanent implant.
A clogging of the arteries, restricting blood flow to the heart, coronary artery disease (CAD) affects more than 15 million Americans and remains a leading causes of death worldwide. The Absorb stent is a major advancement in the treatment of CAD.
"The approval and launch of this device represents a significant advancement in our ability to treat chronic heart disease," said Dr. Timothy Logan, an interventional cardiologist with the McLaren Cardiovascular Institute. "Dissolved entirely after three years, patients and physicians alike don't have to commit themselves to a permanent implant, which leads to reduced anxiety while also maintaining the standard of care."
Traditionally, stents were permanent, metal implants. The Absorb stent is made of a naturally-dissolving material similar to dissolving sutures, disappearing after three years. After having completed its task of keeping a clogged artery open, the stent leaves behind only four markers for future reference of its placement.
During extensive clinical trials, the Absorb stent maintained the standard of care established by the leading metallic stent. However, no metal will allow the stented artery to naturally pulse and flex as the demands of the heart change with the increase and decrease of daily, physical activity.
McLaren Cardiovascular Institute interventional cardiologists underwent extensive training to ensure optimal clinical outcomes.
To learn more about the cardiac care offered at the McLaren Cardiovascular Institute or to schedule an appointment with a cardiologist, visit mclarenheart.org.