Structural evaluation of radially expandable cardiovascular stents encased in a polyurethane film.

A method of encasing cardiovascular stents with an expandable polyurethane coating has been developed to provide a smooth homogeneous inner wall allowing for a confluent growth of endothelial cells. In this design, the metal wire stent structure is completely covered by the polyurethane film, minimizing biocorrosion of the metal (stainless steel or nitinol), and providing a homogeneous surface for surface treatment and incorporation of various eluting drugs to prevent platelet aggregation while supporting endothelialization. The polyurethane surface was treated with a helium plasma for sterilization and promotes growth of cells. The article details the performance of the coated film to expand with the metal stent up to 225% during deployment. Stress/strain behavior of polyurethane films, subsequent plasma treatment of the surface, and the adhesion of the coating to the stent structure upon expansion are presented. A film of less than 25 microm was found to be sufficient for corrosion resistance and flexibility without producing any excess stress on the stent structure. Straining the film to 225% and plasma modification did not affect the mechanical and surface properties, but allowed for improved biocompatibility as determined by the critical surface tension, surface chemistry, and roughness. Copyright 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.