What is the restenosis rate associated with drug-eluting stents?

What is the restenosis rate associated with drug-eluting stents?

• A. >50%
• B. <8%
• C. <20%
• D. <5%

Answer: (B)

Drug-eluting stents reduce restenosis by releasing antiproliferative drugs that curb neointimal hyperplasia after implantation. This suppresses the smooth muscle proliferation that narrows the vessel lumen, leading to much lower restenosis rates than bare-metal stents. In most studies and real-world use, restenosis with drug-eluting stents is well under 8%, typically in the 5–7% range, though it can vary with lesion complexity and how restenosis is defined. That’s why the statement describing restenosis as less than 8% best reflects the general experience with these devices.

Drug-eluting stents reduce restenosis by releasing antiproliferative drugs that curb neointimal hyperplasia after implantation. This suppresses the smooth muscle proliferation that narrows the vessel lumen, leading to much lower restenosis rates than bare-metal stents. In most studies and real-world use, restenosis with drug-eluting stents is well under 8%, typically in the 5–7% range, though it can vary with lesion complexity and how restenosis is defined. That’s why the statement describing restenosis as less than 8% best reflects the general experience with these devices.