Abstract:
Methods of fabricating a stent are disclosed including forming a primer layer on a surface of the scaffold including a first polylactide polymer. The primer layer includes a second polylactide polymer and is free of a therapeutic agent. The scaffold with the primer layer is thermally treated to condition the scaffold. A therapeutic layer is formed over the primer layer and the therapeutic layer includes the second polylactide polymer and a drug. The scaffold is crimped and the primer layer improves adhesion of the therapeutic layer to the scaffold and reduces or prevents damage to the therapeutic layer during crimping.