Every drug-eluting stent in 2026 consists of three essential components that work in tandem to ensure long-term vessel patency:
The Scaffold (Platform): Usually a cobalt-chromium or platinum-chromium alloy. These materials allow for ultra-thin "struts" (as thin as 50–60 $\mu$m), which reduce vessel injury and promote faster healing.
The Polymer Coating: A thin layer that holds the drug. In 2026, the industry has largely shifted to biodegradable polymers that dissolve after the drug is fully released, leaving only the bare metal scaffold behind to reduce long-term inflammation.
The Antiproliferative Drug: Common "limus-family" drugs like Everolimus, Sirolimus, or Zotarolimus are used to inhibit the overgrowth of smooth muscle cells within the stent.