Recent strategies for improving hemocompatibility and endothelialization of cardiovascular devices and inhibition of intimal hyperplasia

Cardiovascular diseases have become one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Stents and artificial grafts have been used to treat cardiovascular diseases. Thrombosis and restenosis seriously impact the clinical outcome of stents and artificial vascular grafts. For the purpose of antithrombosis and anti-restenosis, numerous strategies have been developed to construct highly hemocompatible surfaces, enhance endothelialization, and inhibit intimal hyperplasia. Rapid endothelialization and inhibited intimal hyperplasia play an important role in artery repair after stent implantation and coronary artery bypass graft surgery. This review focuses on the recently developed strategies for improving the hemocompatibility and endothelialization of cardiovascular devices. We also introduce drug, gene and RNA delivery technologies for inhibiting intimal hyperplasia. The challenges and future perspectives about promoting endothelialization are also briefly discussed with the hope to help inspire further innovations.