Drug-eluting stents (DES) are coronary stents that slowly release drugs to prevent restenosis. Restenosis occurs when scar tissue blocks the stented artery. Clinical trials showed DES have lower rates of major adverse cardiac events compared to bare-metal stents. Challenges in packaging DES include maintaining drug stability and effectiveness while allowing sterilization and providing a sterile barrier until use. Proper packaging is crucial given the high cost of DES.