Vascular Stent Evaluation Technology Group

Research on Stent Rupture Durability by Accelerated Durability Testing

We are evaluating the rupture durability of stents using an accelerated durability testing apparatus for coronary artery stents, which was developed by focusing on the bending deformation of the right coronary artery due to cardiac systole and diastole, and an accelerated durability testing apparatus for superficial femoral artery stents, which is capable of simultaneously loading "torsion" and "stretching." The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has issued a guideline based on the data obtained in our laboratory.

Study on Rupture Durability of Bioabsorbable Scaffolds

We have developed a durability testing apparatus that can simulate the biphasic blood flow and pressure conditions of the coronary circulation and the bending deformation of the heart. We are researching the evaluation of degradation, expansion force, and durability over time in a loading environment via this device. In this research, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has issued a guideline based on the data obtained in our laboratory.

Study of Stenting in Left Coronary Artery Bifurcation Lesions

We are developing a simulated left coronary artery bifurcation lesion model to evaluate stent performance in morphology and function. By implanting the stent under identical clinical conditions and analyzing its morphology using micro-CT, we can quantitatively evaluate the stent apposition to the vessel wall. We also use particle image velocimetry to visualize the flow and study the effect of the protruding stent on blood flow.

Evaluation of Devices for Coronary Artery Calcification Treatment

We have newly developed a model of calcified stenotic lesions in coronary arteries to evaluate the performance of devices applied in the treatment of calcified lesions. By testing the performance of devices on models with adjustable calcification shape and thickness, we can quantitatively evaluate device performance in vitro.