Exploring the potential of 3D and 4D printing in advancing stent manufacturing for cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. While the application of vascular stents has significantly improved the management of atherothrombotic events, there are still drawbacks and challenges that need addressing. Restenosis and thrombosis present significant risks related to stent usage, and certain patient populations may require additional treatment or monitoring. Hence, novel stent designs and technologies are being explored aimed at overcoming these limitations and enhancing outcomes for patients. One emerging approach involves using 3D and 4D printing to manufacture stents. Stents produced with these methods are more beneficial, tailored to individuals, and less invasive than traditional manufacturing approaches. While conventional techniques rely on subtracting material from a block to achieve a shape, 3D and 4D printing utilize additive processes to build objects layer by layer. These technologies offer many benefits versus traditional methods, like improved customization abilities, complex geometries, and biocompatibility. These benefits lead to enhanced outcomes and reduced complications in addition to shorter procedures and lower costs. This article aims to examine this technology and explore its potential advantages and drawbacks for the management of CVDs.