What does des mean in cardiology?

DES stands for drug-eluting stent.

A drug-eluting stent is a stent that releases medication to prevent the growth of scar tissue within the stent and to reduce the risk of restenosis. Restenosis is the narrowing of a blood vessel that has been previously treated with angioplasty and stent placement.

DES are used in the treatment of coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and other conditions in which blood vessels become narrowed or blocked.

DES are made of metal and are coated with a polymer that contains the medication. The medication is released slowly over time, typically for a period of several months.

DES are more effective in preventing restenosis than bare-metal stents, but they are also more expensive.