Effect of Stent Strut Interval on Neointima Formation After Venous Stenting in an Ovine Model

ObjectiveThe impact of stent design on venous patency is not well studied. The purpose this study was to investigate the effect material burden endothelial coverage stented segments, which may contribute vessel healing and patency.MethodsSegmented self expanding bare nitinol stents (18 × 50 mm) comprising 5 mm long attached metallic rings separated by 2, 5, or 8 gaps were implanted in inferior vena cava (IVC) 10 sheep. These designed manufactured for purposes study. At six, 12, 24 weeks after implantation animals euthanised vessels harvested histomorphometric analysis. Three sections from part as between struts reviewed quantification endothelialisation weeks. intimal thickness over measured. score (graded 1 complete luminal absence cells) determined.ResultsAll successfully deployed all sheep survived until time harvesting. Macroscopic inspection showed only partial with 2 skipped whereas segments totally incorporated into vein wall. After weeks, mean (SD) neointimal thicknesses mm, 254.0 (51.6), 182.2 (98.1), 194.6 (101.1) ?m, respectively. Comparison scores statistically significantly better 12 weeks.ConclusionStent designs providing structural support veins larger scaffold appear lead faster more a thinner layer. patency. Segmented determined. All Stent