ABSTRACT
In the first generation bioresorbable vascular scaffold (BRS), polymer orientation and crystallinity determine the mechanical strength of the scaffold. In turn, the polymer's ability to orient and gain crystallinity depends on its molecular weight and the tube manufacturing process. BRS, polymer orientation and crystallinity determine the mechanical strength of the scaffold. In turn, the polymer's ability to orient and gain crystallinity depends on its molecular weight and the tube manufacturing process. Highly crystalline polymer structures, however, significantly limit the scaffold's resistance to fracture especially under high stress conditions. The Amaranth polymer technology improves on the biomechanical properties of the current generation BRS. The Amaranth polymer technology relies on polymer orientation and crystallinity, due to the intrinsic material properties uniquely associated with ultra-high molecular weight polymer and the proprietary manufacturing methodology. Ex vivo studies have shown that this type of noncrystalline polymer dramatically improves overexpansion capabilities and resistance to fracture under static and dynamic loading conditions compared to other BRS.
