Caresto is the trade name of a self-expanding nitinol–platinum stent, manufactured in Germany by Acandis and indicated for the treatment of extracranial arterial stenosis in the setting of acute pathology associated (in most cases) with intracranial stenosis.

Caresto is a braided stent made of nitinol filaments with a platinum core. This braided design provides high flexibility and optimal conformability to tortuous anatomies. The nitinol confers high radial force, suitable for maintaining patency of the stenotic segment. Its high metal-to-artery coverage significantly reduces the risk of distal embolization, making the concomitant use of cerebral protection filters unnecessary.

The entire stent is radiopaque, allowing visualization of its full structure under fluoroscopy. It does not produce ferromagnetic artefacts on magnetic resonance imaging. The surface of the entire stent features a patented electropolishing treatment called BlueXide®, which improves trackability and reduces the risk of in-stent thrombosis.

Caresto has a bioactive matrix covalently bonded throughout its structure, based on heparin and fibrin molecules, patented under the name HEAL®, which repels platelet adhesion, inhibits local coagulation and inflammation, and promotes rapid endothelialization of the device. This increases safety in patients with a poor response to antiplatelet therapy and, above all, enhances the safety of implantation in the setting of acute stroke and/or in patients with associated intracranial pathology.

Caresto is available in a straight configuration with diameters of 6, 8 and 10 mm and lengths ranging from 30 to 60 mm. It is also available in a tapered configuration (different distal and proximal diameters), available in 6/8 mm and 8/10 mm diameters and lengths ranging from 29 to 43 mm. These configurations allow treatment of vessels from 4 to 10 mm in diameter (catalogue with references attached).

All references are deliverable through the NeuroSlider 52 catheter with a 0.052” inner lumen (supplied separately on request). The delivery system is coaxial.