Girona's Trueta Hospital implants pioneering device to prevent leg amputations

The medical center is the first in Catalonia to use a bioresorbable system for treating obstructed arteries.

Generic image of a high-tech medical device for vascular interventions.
IA

Generic image of a high-tech medical device for vascular interventions.

The Dr. Josep Trueta University Hospital in Girona has achieved a medical milestone in Catalonia by implanting a bioresorbable device in leg arteries below the knee for the first time.

The procedure was performed on a patient suffering from chronic critical ischemia, a serious condition that restricts blood flow and poses a significant risk of amputation. The device works similarly to a stent but is uniquely designed to be absorbed by the body over time.
While keeping the artery open, the implant releases medication to prevent further blockages. This technology is particularly effective for small arteries, which are often difficult to treat using traditional surgical methods, ensuring a more natural recovery process.
The hospital expects to perform around fifteen of these implants throughout 2026. This integration of advanced technology represents a major step forward in treating complex arterial diseases in the region.