Taxol eluting stents

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Ron - 26 Feb 2005 08:52 GMT

Is their any information yet on how long these stents are staying clear?
I recently had one installed and they seem relatively new on the scene.
Hopefully they last a good long time.
Last but not least how are people doing that have been finally allowed to
discontinue Plavix?
Ron

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Bill - 26 Feb 2005 09:45 GMT

> Is their any information yet on how long these stents are staying clear?
> I recently had one installed and they seem relatively new on the scene.
> Hopefully they last a good long time.
> Last but not least how are people doing that have been finally allowed to
> discontinue Plavix?
> Ron

The purpose of drug eluting stents is to reduce restenosis which usually
occurs in the first 6 months. So it depends on what you mean by "recently"
Once you are past the 6 month period the stent has done its job and you are
more at risk at other areas in your arteries. During the 6 months I've seen
figures of 10% or maybe a little higher for restenosis. But it depends on your
condition - e.g. diabetes or not.

On the Plavix question, I've seen a variety of opinions and don't recall any
long term studies.

Bill - not a Dr.

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