Promising PTFE-coating technology of Optimus-CVS™ stents: The new player for congenital heart disease interventions

Background: The use of covered stents (CVS) in congenital heart disease (CHD) interventions is increasing but intrinsic properties of commercially available material remain not optimal. The Optimus-CVS™ (AndraTec GmbH, Koblenz, Germany) is a new balloon-expandable, non-premounted, Cobalt–Chromium stent with patented hybrid-cell design, innovative end-free Nano-PTFE sandwich-covering, and competitive deliverability features. Methods and results: Three patients with CHD received Optimus-CVS during December 2020 at our institution. Indications for CVS implantation were relief of complex aortic recoarctation (57 ​mm long Optimus-CVS-XL), treatment of intra-stent intimal proliferation in Fontan circulation (48 ​mm long Optimus-CVS-XXL), and as a bail-out for conduit rupture during pulmonary valve implantation (33 ​mm long Optimus-CVS-XXL). Procedures were successful and straightforward. Target diameter was achieved and stent shortening was minimal and as expected. No stent failure was recorded on short-term follow-up. Conclusions: Optimus-CVS appears to be a reliable high-performing CVS alternative in major CHD situations where CVS are needed. Optimus-CVS offers interesting construction characteristics, smart covering design, and the largest portfolio in terms of diameters and length optimizing lesion care and improving outcomes.