PCI vs. CABG in left main with multi-vessel coronary artery disease and diabetes: Case report

Diab Vasc Dis Res. 2024 May-Jun;21(3):14791641241253540. doi: 10.1177/14791641241253540.

Abstract

This case challenges the conventional preference for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) over percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with diabetes, left main coronary artery disease (LMCAD) and multivessel disease. Current guidelines generally recommend CABG, especially in the context of LMCAD. However, our case involves a male patient with diabetes with LMCAD and extensive multivessel disease who was successfully treated with PCI, demonstrating a favorable outcome. Despite the high-risk profile, including a SYNTAX score of 28, the PCI approach was selected. This decision was supported by evidence suggesting comparable outcomes between PCI and CABG in similar patients. Our case highlights the potential of PCI as not just a viable, but potentially superior alternative in specific high-risk patients with diabetes, contrary to the prevailing belief in favor of CABG for all patients with left main involvement.

Keywords: Percutaneous coronary intervention; coronary artery bypass grafting; diabetes mellitus; left main coronary artery disease; multivessel coronary artery disease.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Clinical Decision-Making
  • Coronary Angiography
  • Coronary Artery Bypass* / adverse effects
  • Coronary Artery Disease* / complications
  • Coronary Artery Disease* / diagnostic imaging
  • Coronary Artery Disease* / surgery
  • Coronary Artery Disease* / therapy
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / complications
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Selection
  • Percutaneous Coronary Intervention*
  • Risk Assessment
  • Risk Factors
  • Treatment Outcome