The FDA has approved Medronic’s Integrity Coronary Stent System, based on an advanced biomedical engineering called continuous sinusoid technology, enabling the exploration of other new device concepts, such as a polymer-free drug-filled stent. The stent is said to feature a new, more flexible construction which is easier for surgeons to insert. A stent is a metal mesh which is placed inside an artery after it has been cleared of blockage.

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A Dutch study showed that people who took preventive doses of the statin pills, such as Lescol, before and after their operations to get an artery unclogged or repaired were much less likely to die or have a heart attack afterward. Statins are widely prescribed to reduce cholesterol and prevent heart disease.

Daiichi Sankyo Inc and Eli Lilly received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for Effient (prasugrel) tablets to be used for the reduction of thrombotic cardiovascular events. Effient reduces thrombotic cardiovascular events (including stent thrombosis) in patients suffering from acutecoronary syndromes and undergoing an artery-opening procedure known as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). PCI usually includes the placement of a stent to help keep the artery open.