Optimizing Aortic Arch Stent-Graft Performance Through Material Science: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) for cardiovascular diseases often encounters complications that are closely linked to the mechanical properties of stent-grafts. Both the design and material properties influence device performance, but the specific impacts of material properties remain underexplored and poorly understood. This study aims to fill this gap by systematically investigating how material science can modulate stent-graft mechanics. Four types of bare nitinol stents combined with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (e-PTFE) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) grafts were modeled via finite element analysis, creating eight stent-graft configurations. Key mechanical properties—flexibility, crimpability, and fatigue performance—were evaluated to dissect material effects. The results revealed that nitinol’s properties significantly influenced all performance metrics, while PET grafts notably enhanced flexibility and fatigue life. No significant differences in equivalent stress were found between PET and e-PTFE grafts, and both had minimal impacts on radial force. This work underscores the potential of material science-driven optimization to enhance stent-graft performance for improved clinical outcomes.