ABSTRACT
The coronary bioresorbable scaffolds (BRSs) are composed of either an aliphatic polymer or bioresorbable metal alloy. This chapter explores how to facilitate the understanding of mechanical features of the materials used for bioresorbable scaffolds. The leading bioresorbable scaffolds are primarily comprised of poly (L-lactide) (PLLA) or magnesium alloy (WE43-type). The mechanical properties of magnesium alloys are improved by inclusion of other chemical elements in the alloy formulation. A problem with some magnesium (Mg) alloys is their high corrosion rate at physiological conditions, which can make their biodegradability faster than the treatment time. PLLA exhibits a gradual reduction in molecular weight over time without an appreciable mass loss for most of the time. PLLA hydrolyzes more slowly under neutral pH and more quickly under acidic and alkaline conditions. The investment in resources to develop bioresorbable scaffolds suitable for use in complex lesions offers the benefit of unconstrained, treated arteries.
