Table 2.

Properties of an ideal biodegradable scaffold (Wayangankar and Ellis 2015; Mariano et al. 2013)

Biocompatibility: before, during and after degradation

Adequate radial strength

Adequate time for degradation; not too fast to increase inflammation, and not too long to provoke adverse body reaction, 4–6 months

No inflammatory process aggravating or initiating by degradation

Compatibility with DES technology and eluting drugs at a determined rate without any effect on the radial strength

Not having thick struts

Easy deliverability

Easy refrigeration

Enhanced visualization under fluoroscopy

Compatible with currently available equipment for deployment

Improved dwell time before deployment