A Low-cost Microwave Stentenna for In-stent Restenosis Detection

This paper proposes a novel non-invasive stent-integrated antenna sensing system for real-time detection of instent restenosis (ISR). The antenna architecture is developed by strategically modifying a clinically deployed coronary stent model, and incorporating dual dielectric resonators at its terminals while preserving original mechanical integrity. Using a 5-mm radius, 3-cm long fully-expanded nitinol ring stent as the test platform, we systematically evaluate the stentenna’s electromagnetic response characteristics under physiologically representative stenosis conditions through multi-physics simulations. A wireless interrogation system employing an external helical coil is utilized for remote data acquisition. Experimental validation with fabricated prototypes confirms the design’s operational stability. Distinguished from conventional smart stent designs requiring structural compromises, this solution introduces 2 critical advantages: negligible hemodynamic interference through topology conservation and cost-effective manufacturability via standard stent production lines.