- Drug-eluting stents (DESs) have dramatically reduced the rates of in-stent restenosis compared with those of bare-metal stents. DES placement is frequently followed by high-pressure postdilatation to prevent incomplete stent apposition that may cause a further stent fracture (SF). SF may remain asymptomatic but it is an important cause of stent thrombosis, can be difficult to diagnose, and may be life-threatening.