Long-term clinical observations for a biofunctionalized stent: Yet to deliver their theoretical benefits.

Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) may allow accelerated and functional endothelialization of stents, theoretically reducing late stent complications as well reducing the duration of DAPT. In a pilot study of 193 patients at high risk of target vessel failure (TVF), the Genous EPC capturing stent (ESC) and TAXUS Liberté paclitaxel-eluting second-generation stent (PES) were similar at 5-years. Events rates appear higher for ESC within the first-year followed by higher rate of complications for PES during years 2-5. A larger randomized multi-center trials powered for non-inferiority of ECS to PES is underway.