At EuroPCR 2025, Prof. Colombo and Dr. Finn discuss the issue of particulate embolization following drug-coated balloon (DCB) angioplasty. The drug and carrier type on the DCB are critical, with smaller particles linked to less organ damage. They emphasize the need to translate preclinical data into practice and consider improving DCB design to reduce risk without losing efficacy.
Their conclusion: DCB-related embolization is iatrogenic and not due to plaque or thrombus, and while not universally problematic, it may impact certain patients and devices.