Atheroma is characterized by plaque-induced narrowing of the arteries, which impairs vascular function and may ultimately result in thrombosis and infarction of the affected organ. It is currently the leading cause of death in developed countries [1].

In 1966, Charles Dotter reported the first human percutaneous angioplasty (PTA) [2], followed by Andreas Grüntzig’s pioneering description of coronary artery PTA in 1977 [3]. Two decades later, Puel et al. performed the first stent implantation in a patient in 1986 [4]. Today, managing symptomatic atherosclerotic disease relies on modifying risk factors, administering antiplatelet therapy, and performing PTA with stent implantation.

The introduction of newer-generation stents, such as drug-eluting stents, and advances in antithrombotic regimens have markedly reduced the incidence of stent failure during the first months after implantation. However, late and very late stent thrombosis (ST) remain pressing concerns due to their unpredictable nature and the high morbidity and mortality associated with them. After six months, once vascular healing is largely complete, the permanent presence of the stent no longer provides significant therapeutic benefit, but continues to pose risks, such as inflammation, neoatherosclerosis, and mechanical complications. These limitations, combined with ongoing advancements in materials science, have catalyzed the development of the new concept of bioresorbable scaffold (BRS).

The purpose of this article was to provide a concise overview of the arterial healing process and the key biological and mechanical factors contributing to stent failure after PTA. This underscores the need for BRS. It presents the theoretical advantages and current limitations of these devices and outlines their potential clinical applications. Finally, the article discusses future directions for using BRS to redefine endovascular intervention and place interventional practitioners at the forefront of innovation once again.