Drug-Eluting Stent Study Evaluating a New Technology in Patients with Symptomatic Ischemic Heart Disease due to Coronary Artery Blockage

The percutaneous revascularization of native coronary arteries exhibiting stenotic lesion(s) using a novel sirolimus-eluting cobalt chromium stent with bioerodable drug carrier delivered via fixed-wire catheter system is similar to current stenting procedures. Depending on difficulty of lesion treatment, procedures, typcially under conscious sedation, take between 30 and 90 minutes and are conducted in the cardiology cath lab. A small puncture in the groin or arm provides arterial access to place a stent in the heart using x-ray fluoroscopy for visualization during the procedure. Ususally this is a one-time procedure; however, some patients experience re-clogging of the target artery and have to return for reinitervention.