Early endothelialization associated with a biolimus A9 bioresorbable polymer stent in a porcine coronary model

Although Nobori ® , with a bioresorbable polymer and biolimus A9 abluminal coating, has unique characteristics, few data exist regarding endothelialization early after implantation. Fifteen Nobori ® and 14 control bare-metal stents (S-stent™) were implanted in 12 pigs. Histopathology of stented segments, inflammation, and intimal fibrin content was evaluated on the 2nd and 14th day after implantation. On the 2nd day, endothelial cells were morphologically and immunohistologically confirmed on the surface of both stents, although some inflammatory cells might be involved. Stent surface endothelialization evaluated with a scanning electron microscope showed partial cellular coverage in both stents. On the 14th day, neointimal thickness and percentage of the neointimal area were significantly lower in Nobori ® than in S-stent™ (51.4 ± 4.5 vs. 76.4 ± 23.6 µm, p