Could a balloon replace stents for major heart artery clogs?

NCT ID NCT07548281

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether a drug-coated balloon (DCB) is as safe and effective as a drug-eluting stent (DES) for treating large blockages in heart arteries. About 2,492 patients will be randomly assigned to receive either a balloon or a stent, guided by advanced imaging. The goal is to see if the balloon can avoid leaving a permanent metal implant, potentially reducing bleeding risks.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Drug-coated balloon (DCB) and drug-eluting stent (DES)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could offer a stent-free option for treating large coronary artery blockages, potentially reducing long-term complications from permanent implants.

What could go wrong

This is a large but early-stage comparison trial. The balloon-only approach may not work as well as stents for all patients, and there are risks like vessel recoil or dissection.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

coronary artery disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

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  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••