Abluminus DES+ vs XIENCE EES: 12‑Month Outcomes in Diabetic PCI Patients

January 26, 2026 Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor Health

Patients with diabetes undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) experienced higher rates of ischemia-driven target-lesion revascularization and target lesion failure at 12 months when treated with the Abluminus DES+ SES compared to the XIENCE EES,according to recent findings. However, event rates between 12 and 24 months showed no significant difference between the two groups.

The study highlights the ongoing difficulties in achieving optimal outcomes for diabetic patients undergoing PCI.PCI, a non-surgical procedure used to open blocked coronary arteries, is a common treatment for coronary artery disease. Diabetic patients are known to be at higher risk of adverse events following PCI,including restenosis (re-narrowing of the artery) and stent thrombosis (blood clot formation within the stent).

The Abluminus DES+ SES and XIENCE EES are both drug-eluting stents (DES),designed to release medication that prevents tissue overgrowth and restenosis. The findings suggest that, at least within the first year post-procedure, the XIENCE EES demonstrated superior performance in this specific patient population. Researchers emphasize the need for continued advancements in stent technology and the use of adjunctive pharmacotherapy – medications used in addition to stents – to minimize residual ischemic risk.

“These results underscore the importance of carefully considering stent selection and optimizing medical therapy for patients with diabetes undergoing PCI,” explains dr. Robert Byrne, a leading cardiologist at the University of galway, in a recent publication on theheart.org. “Further research is needed to identify strategies to improve long-term outcomes and reduce the risk of future cardiac events in this vulnerable population.”

The study reinforces the need for a personalized approach to PCI in diabetic patients, taking into account individual risk factors and tailoring treatment strategies accordingly. Ongoing clinical trials are investigating novel stent designs and drug combinations aimed at further reducing ischemic events and improving the long-term prognosis for these patients.