DCB first: defining the right patient, lesion and strategy

In this discussion, Ashok Seth and Florim Cuculi explore the growing role of drug‑coated balloons (DCB) and the “leave nothing behind” strategy in PCI, highlighting the limitations of permanent metallic stents and the potential of DCBs to preserve vessel physiology, reduce long-term complications, and improve outcomes in selected patients. Current use focuses on in-stent restenosis, small vessels, bifurcations and complex lesions, with careful lesion preparation and imaging guidance being key to success. While technologies vary and further evidence is needed, the discussion points toward a future of more personalised, metal-minimising coronary interventions.

This interview was filmed at EuroPCR 2026: see more videos here.