Bioresorbable Vascular Scaffolds for the Treatment of Aortic Coarctation in Pediatric Patients – Aspects of Dimensional and Mechanical Performance

Abstract At present, there are no bioresorbable systems available for the treatment of aortic coarctation in pediatric patients. However, experience with off-label used systems and knowledge of bioresorbable scaffolds in other applications suggest potential benefits. While stenting techniques are typically preferred for older children, there have been encouraging reports regarding their use in newborns and very young infants recently. Bioresorbable scaffolds could potentially close the technological gap in this area and serve as a bridge therapy for non-operable patients. This work identifies geometric and loading aspects in the light of current literature to improve the growth-responsive development of new scaffolds for the treatment of congenital heart diseases with pediatric-specific characteristics.