Cardiovascular Pharmacology: Open Access

Advancing Cardiovascular Implants through FDM: Personalized Prostheses with Controlled Drug Release

Thomas Muller^* Institute of Pharmacology and Cardiovascular Research, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
^*Correspondence: Thomas Muller, Institute of Pharmacology and Cardiovascular Research, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany, Email:

Received: 19-Feb-2025, Manuscript No. CPO-25-28928; Editor assigned: 21-Feb-2025, Pre QC No. CPO-25-28928 (PQ); Reviewed: 07-Mar-2025, QC No. CPO-25-28928; Revised: 14-Mar-2025, Manuscript No. CPO-25-28928 (R); Published: 21-Mar-2025, DOI: 10.35248/2329-6607.25.14.418

Description

The integration of Additive Manufacturing (AM) technologies into the biomedical field has revolutionized the development of patient-specific implants, including cardiovascular prostheses. Among AM techniques, Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) has emerged as a cost-effective, scalable and precise method for fabricating customized devices [1]. This short communication explains the application of FDM in developing drug-loaded cardiovascular prostheses, focusing on its potential to improve post-implantation outcomes through localized drug delivery.

FDM is based on the extrusion of thermoplastic filaments that are deposited layer-by-layer to build three-dimensional structures [2]. Its simplicity and adaptability make it highly suitable for fabricating intricate geometries required in cardiovascular implants such as stents, vascular grafts and heart valve supports [3]. The capability to load drugs directly into the filament or onto the surface of the construct opens new methods for creating multifunctional devices capable of both mechanical support and therapeutic delivery.

One of the most potential aspects of using FDM in this context is the capacity to produce prostheses with site-specific drug release profiles. For example, the incorporation of antiproliferative agents such as sirolimus or paclitaxel into the polymer matrix can prevent neointimal hyperplasia and restenosis following vascular implantations [4]. Moreover, antibiotics or anticoagulants embedded within the prosthetic structure may reduce infection risks and thrombus formation, respectively. These features can be particularly advantageous in high-risk patients undergoing coronary or peripheral artery reconstruction [5].

The success of FDM-fabricated drug-loaded prostheses depends on the optimization of several parameters. First, the selection of a biocompatible and printable polymer is critical. Polymers like Polycaprolactone (PCL), Polylactic Acid (PLA) and their copolymers are frequently used due to their biodegradability and favorable mechanical properties. The drug-polymer compatibility, thermal stability of the drug during filament extrusion and control over drug release kinetics are significant considerations that influence the efficacy of the final product [6].

Recent studies have demonstrated that drugs can be physically blended with the polymer before filament production or coated onto the surface post-fabrication [7]. Each approach presents unique challenges: The former requires the drug to withstand high extrusion temperatures without degradation, while the latter often faces issues of uneven drug distribution and rapid burst release. Innovations in filament fabrication, such as the use of coaxial or multi-layered filaments, may offer solutions by enabling a core-shell structure with a controlled release barrier.

In the context of cardiovascular applications, mechanical properties are of significant importance. FDM allows for the customization of porosity, wall thickness and pattern density, all of which directly affect the flexibility, radial strength and degradation rate of the prosthesis. For example, a stent-like structure fabricated using PCL and loaded with an anti-inflammatory drug could provide both mechanical support and localized therapy in the treatment of vascular stenosis [8]. Customizing the infill pattern during printing can help mimic the natural compliance of blood vessels, potentially reducing the risk of graft failure.

Another compelling advantage of FDM in this domain is the feasibility of patient-specific design. Using medical imaging data such as CT or MRI scans, three-dimensional digital models can be generated to produce prostheses that conform precisely to the patient's anatomy. This level of personalization may enhance implant compatibility and therapeutic effectiveness, especially in complex cardiovascular conditions where standard prostheses fall short [9].

Despite its potential attributes, several limitations must be addressed before widespread clinical adoption of FDM-fabricated drug-loaded cardiovascular prostheses [10]. These include regulatory challenges, standardization of printing protocols, reproducibility and long-term biocompatibility assessments. Furthermore, the influence of shear forces, pulsatile blood flow and in vivo degradation on drug release dynamics remains insufficiently understood and requires rigorous investigation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, FDM represents a transformative platform for the development of drug-loaded cardiovascular prostheses. By combining structural precision with localized pharmacotherapy, this approach offers the potential to improve therapeutic outcomes, reduce systemic drug exposure and enhance patientspecific care. Continued interdisciplinary efforts between materials scientists, engineers and clinicians will be essential in translating these innovative devices.

References

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