title: The intra-vascular stent as a site-specific local drug delivery system.
abstract: The current review focuses on utilization of a tubular structure (coated or uncoated, balloon expandable or self expanding) known as a "stent" for localized intravascular drug delivery. Emphasis of the review is on technologies currently employed for immobilization and coating for drug onto the stent prior to its placement in various lumen of the body. A brief discussion on stent design, comparison of angioplasty and coronary stenting, and market status complements the review for researchers new to this area.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, University Institute of Chemical Technology, Matunga, Mumbai, India.
authors.forename: Imran Ahmad
authors.initials: IA
authors.lastname: Khan
authors.forename: Vandana B
authors.initials: VB
authors.lastname: Patravale
mesh_terms: D000800:Angioplasty, Balloon; D000818:Animals; D020099:Coated Materials, Biocompatible; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems; D004867:Equipment Design; D005079:Excipients; D006801:Humans; D009131:Muscle, Smooth, Vascular / Q000166:cytology / Q000187:drug effects; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations / Q000008:administration & dosage; D015607:Stents
chemical_list: D020099:Coated Materials, Biocompatible; D005079:Excipients; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations