Boston Scientific Corporation announced yesterday (3rd February) that it has enrolled the first patients for its platinum-based coronary stent clinical trials.

The body is hoping to conduct tests to compare its PROMUS Element Everolimus-Eluting Coronary Stent with its PROMUS(TM) Everolimus-Eluting Coronary Stent.

The former contains a platinum chromium alloy which, when combined with new stent architecture, should offer thinner struts, more flexibility and a lower profile.

Furthermore, the Element stent - which makes use of new catheter technology aimed at improving drug delivery to complex lesions - will bring about greater radial strength, recoil and visibility.

Keith Dawkins, Managing Director, Senior Vice-President and Associate Chief Medical Officer for Boston Science Corporation, said: "We are excited to begin evaluating the everolimus version of our third-generation Element stent.

"The advanced platinum chromium alloy and new balloon catheter offered in the Element stent system represent significant improvements."

Dr Gregg Stone, Global Principal Investigator for the trials, added that he is "enthusiastic" about the possibility of having both versions of the stent available as it will offer coronary artery disease patients the chance to have tailored treatment.

The first patients were enrolled last week in the US and Japan and the body believes that it will be able to complete the process by October.

Source:

Boston Scientific Begins Clinical Trial Enrollment for New Everolimus-Eluting Stent (03/02/09)
http://news.prnewswire.com/DisplayReleaseContent.aspx?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/02-03-2009/0004965283&EDATE=

Boston Scientific begins trials for stents made with 'next generation' metal
http://www.minnpost.com/businessagenda/2009/02/03/6407/boston_scientific_begins_trials_for_stents_made_with_next_generation_metal