Dissolvable scaffolds could save legs from amputation in major new trial

This Europe-wide study will follow 400 people with severe leg artery disease (chronic limb-threatening ischemia) to see if a new dissolvable, drug-coated scaffold can keep leg arteries open better than standard treatments. The scaffold releases medication to prevent re-blockage and then dissolves over time, avoiding the long-term risks of permanent metal stents. Participants must have heavily calcified arteries in the lower leg and be willing to undergo the procedure.