Optimizing Stent Expansion in Calcified Coronary Lesions: A Case Series on the Efficacy of Scoring Balloons for Acute Underexpansion

Stent underexpansion remains a critical challenge in the treatment of calcified coronary lesions through percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). It is a significant risk factor for in-stent restenosis, stent thrombosis, and adverse clinical outcomes. Although methods such as atherectomy, intravascular lithotripsy, and scoring balloons are used in the preparation period before stent placement, there is a paucity studies on their use in acute stent underexpansion. In this context, the use of scoring balloons for post-dilatation of acutely underexpanded stents offers a promising, cost-effective approach for optimizing stent size and improving clinical outcomes. Further studies are warranted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this method in routine clinical practice.