Debulking for in-stent restenosis in the brachytherapy era: does it still have a role?

J Invasive Cardiol. 2003 Apr;15(4):209-12.

Abstract

Despite the advent of intracoronary brachytherapy, treatment of in-stent restenosis, particularly diffuse in-stent restenosis, remains problematic. Adjunctive debulking prior to brachytherapy may improve long-term outcomes. We review the literature and report our results of a series of patients treated with excimer laser coronary atherectomy along with balloon angioplasty and brachytherapy for in-stent restenosis. We conclude that adjunctive debulking may improve the long-term clinical outcomes of patients with diffuse in-stent restenosis treated with angioplasty and intracoronary radiation. A randomized controlled trial is warranted.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angioplasty, Balloon, Coronary / trends
  • Blood Vessel Prosthesis Implantation / trends
  • Brachytherapy / trends*
  • Coronary Restenosis / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Stents*
  • Treatment Outcome