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The frequency of and relationship between hospital readmissions and outcomes after revascularization for left main coronary artery disease (LMCAD) are unknown. The purpose of this study was to study the incidence, predictors, and clinical impact of readmissions following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) for LMCAD. In the EXCEL (XIENCE Versus Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery for Effectiveness of Left Main Revascularization) trial, 1,905 patients with LMCAD were randomized to PCI vs CABG. The cumulative incidence of readmissions was analyzed with multivariable Anderson-Gill and joint frailty models to account for recurrent events and the competing risk of death. The impact of readmission on subsequent mortality within 5-year follow-up was determined in a time-adjusted Cox proportional hazards model. Within 5 years, 1,868 readmissions occurred in 851 of 1,882 (45.2%) hospital survivors (2.2 ± 1.9 per patient with readmission[s], range 1-16), approximately one-half for cardiovascular causes and one-half for noncardiovascular causes (927 [49.6%] and 941 [50.4%], respectively). One or more readmissions occurred in 463 of 942 (48.6%) PCI patients vs 388 of 940 (41.8%) CABG patients (P = 0.003). After multivariable adjustment, PCI remained an independent predictor of readmission (adjusted HR: 1.22; 95% CI: 1.10-1.35; P < 0.0001), along with female sex, comorbidities, and the extent of CAD. Readmission was independently associated with subsequent all-cause death, with interaction testing indicating a higher risk after PCI than CABG (adjusted HR: 5.72; 95% CI: 3.42-9.55 vs adjusted HR: 2.72; 95% CI: 1.64-4.88, respectively; P int = 0.03). In the EXCEL trial, readmissions during 5-year follow-up after revascularization for LMCAD were common and more frequent after PCI than CABG. Readmissions were associated with an increased risk of all-cause death, more so after PCI than with CABG. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Revascularization of left main coronary artery (LMCA) stenosis is mostly based on angiography. Indices based on angiography might increase accuracy of the decision, although they have been scarcely used in LMCA. The objective of this study is to study the diagnostic agreement of QFR (quantitative flow ratio) with wire-based fractional flow reserve (FFR) in LMCA lesions and to compare with visual severity assessment. In a series of patients with invasive FFR assessment of intermediate LMCA stenoses we retrospectively compared the measured value of QFR with that of FFR and the estimate of significance from angiography. 107 QFR studies were included. The QFR intra-observer and inter-observer agreement was 87% and 82% respectively. The mean QFR-FFR difference was 0.047 ± 0.05 with a concordance of 90.7%, sensitivity 88.1%, specificity 92.3%, positive predictive value 88.1% and negative predictive value 92.3%. All these values were superior to those observed with the visual estimation which showed an intra- and inter-observer agreement of 73% and 72% respectively, besides 78% with the FFR value. The low diagnostic performance of the visual estimation and the acceptable performance of the QFR index measurement were observed in all subgroups analysed. QFR allows an acceptable estimate of the FFR obtained with intracoronary pressure guidewire in intermediate LMCA lesions, and clearly superior to the assessment based on angiography alone. The decision to revascularize patients with moderate LMCA lesions should not be based solely on the degree of angiographic stenosis. [Display omitted] • In LMCA the estimation of its functional impact based exclusively on angiography has a low reproducibility and agreement with the FFR. • The decision based exclusively on the visual estimation of angiography can result in inadequate treatment of a lesion in the left main coronary artery. • The use of functional indices based on angiography may be a precise and objective tool for decision making without the need of invasive procedures using pressure wire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relative risks for different periprocedural major adverse events (MAE) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) on subsequent mortality have not been described. The aim of this study was to assess the association between periprocedural MAE occurring within 30 days postprocedure and early and late mortality after left main coronary artery revascularization by PCI and CABG. In the EXCEL (Evaluation of XIENCE Versus Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery for Effectiveness of Left Main Revascularization) trial, patients with left main disease were randomized to PCI vs CABG. The associations between 12 prespecified nonfatal MAE and subsequent 5-year all-cause and cardiovascular death in 1,858 patients were examined using logistic regression. One or more nonfatal MAE occurred in 111 of 935 patients (11.9%) after PCI and 419 of 923 patients (45.4%) after CABG (P < 0.0001). Patients with MAE were older and had more baseline comorbidities. Within 5 years, all-cause death occurred in 117 and 87 patients after PCI and CABG, respectively. Experiencing an MAE was a strong independent predictor of 5-year mortality after both PCI (adjusted OR: 4.61; 95% CI: 2.71-7.82) and CABG (adjusted OR: 3.25; 95% CI: 1.95-5.41). These associations were present within the first 30 days and between 30 days and 5 years postprocedure. Major or minor bleeding with blood transfusion ≥2 U was an independent predictor of 5-year mortality after both procedures. Stroke, unplanned revascularization for ischemia, and renal failure were significantly associated with mortality only after CABG. In the EXCEL trial, nonfatal periprocedural MAE were strongly associated with early and late mortality after both PCI and CABG for left main disease. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Real-world data for managing patients with diabetes and left main coronary artery (LMCA) disease are scarce. We compared percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) outcomes versus coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in diabetes and LMCA disease patients. We retrospectively studied patients with LMCA presented to 14 centers from 2015 to 2019. The study included 2138 patients with unprotected LMCA disease; 1468 (68.7 %) had diabetes. Patients were grouped into; diabetes with PCI (n = 804) or CABG (n = 664) and non-diabetes with PCI (n = 418) or CABG (n = 252). In diabetes, cardiac (34 (5.1 %) vs. 22 (2.7 %); P = 0.016), non-cardiac (13 (2 %) vs. 6 (0.7 %); P = 0.027) and total hospital mortality (47 (7.1 %) vs. 28 (3.5 %); P = 0.0019), myocardial infarction (45 (6.8 %) vs. 11 (1.4 %); P = 0.001), cerebrovascular events (25 (3.8 %) vs. 12 (1.5 %); P = 0.005) and minor bleeding (65 (9.8 %) vs. 50 (6.2 %); P = 0.006) were significantly higher in CABG patients compared to PCI; respectively. The median follow-up time was 20 (10–37) months. In diabetes, total mortality was higher in CABG (P = 0.001) while congestive heart failure was higher in PCI (P = 0.001). There were no differences in major adverse cerebrovascular events and target lesion revascularization between PCI and CABG. Predictors of mortality in diabetes were high anatomical SYNTAX, peripheral arterial disease, chronic kidney disease, and cardiogenic shock. In this multicenter retrospective study, we found no significant difference in clinical outcomes during the short-term follow-up between PCI with second-generation DES and CABG except for lower total mortality and a higher rate of congestive heart failure in PCI group of patients. Randomized trials to characterize patients who could benefit from each treatment option are needed. • The optimal revascularization strategy for left main coronary artery disease in diabetes patients is controversial • In this multicenter retrospective study, 69% of patients with unprotected LMCA disease had diabetes • There is no difference in cardiac death, TLR, TVR, and MACCE at a median of 20 months follow-up between PCI with DES and CABG • Total mortality is lower in PCI vs. CABG in diabetes. However, congestive heart failure is higher in the PCI group of patients [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antithrombotic therapy is the cornerstone of secondary cardiovascular prevention after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Improvements in drug-eluting stent (DES) design and materials over the last 2 decades have prompted the development of new antithrombotic strategies. Current guidelines recommend to tailor dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) according to clinical presentation and individual ischemic and bleeding risk. Given the growing number of complex PCI procedures performed nowadays, it is a priority to define the optimal antithrombotic treatment in this challenging patient subset. In this review article, we sought to summarize and discuss the current evidence on antiplatelet therapy in patients undergoing complex PCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite recent advancements, challenges persist in determining the optimal stenting strategy for LM bifurcation disease. Hence, this systematic review aims to compare single provisional and systematic dual stenting for managing LM bifurcation disease. A systematic search was performed until January 14, 2024. For the effect measure, risk ratios (RRs) was calculated. This study included 22 studies with 10776 participants. The all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality revealed comparable outcomes between provisional and dual-systematic stenting (RR 1.13, CI95 %: 0.87-1.47, p 0.36, I2 59 %; RR 1.16, CI95 %: 0.73-1.84, p 0.63, I2 80 %). In addition, MACE, MI, TLR, TVR, and in stent thrombosis also showed similar findings. Subgroup analysis revealed that cohort studies was the source of heterogeneity in all-cause mortality, stent thrombosis, and TLR. This meta-analysis suggests comparable outcomes between provisional and dual-systematic stenting in managing LM bifurcation disease. Further study is needed to validate the outcomes of novel techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Acute total occlusion of the left main coronary artery (ATOLMA) usually leads to a catastrophic presentation. Prediction of ATOLMA by electrocardiogram (ECG) may contribute to early detection and reperfusion. Limited data have been reported previously. This study aims to identify the admission 12‑leads ECG features that can predict the presence of ATOLMA and in-Hospital mortality in these patients.Methods: The admission ECGs findings in 24 patients from the previously reported ATOLMA multicenter registry were compared to the ECGs findings in 15 patients with an acute subtotal occlusion of the left main (ASOLMA) and to 15 patients with anterior ST-elevation myocardial infarction of the proximal left anterior descending (LADp-STEMI).Results: Some ECG features at presentation can predict an ATOLMA: QRS left axis deviation (-61.17 ± 9 degrees); ST-segment elevation in aVL (1.9 ± 0.65 mm); absence of ST-segment elevation in V1 (0.0 ± 0.6 mm); bifascicular block (58%); fragmented QRS (62.5%); prolongation of QTc interval (465 ± 19 ms) and of QRS interval (136 ± 12 mm). The multivariate analysis found that the independent predictors to distinguish ATOLMA from ASOLMA were aVL ST-segment deviation (OR 5.6(95% CI 1.5-21), p = 0.01) and absence of V1 ST-segment elevation (OR 27(95% CI 1.4-52), p = 0.01); and from LADp-STEMI was QRS width (OR 1.1(95% CI 1.02-1.2), p = 0.02). Fragmented QRS was the only independent predictor of in-hospital mortality in ATOLMA (OR 0.125(95% CI 0.01-0.81), p = 0.03).Conclusions: aVL ST-segment elevation, the absence of V1 ST-segment elevation, left axis deviation, the presence of bifascicular block, and prolongation of QRS and QTc interval are predictors of ATOLMA. Fragmented QRS predicts in-hospital mortality in ATOLMA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The evidence basis for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in coronary artery disease (CAD) has become more firmly established over the last decade in view of new evidence from several large, randomized trials and propensity-matched registries. In comparison to PCI, CABG offers substantial survival benefits and significant reductions in myocardial infarction and need for repeat revascularization in multivessel disease in patients with intermediate and high severity disease, whereas for left main disease these benefits are largely observed in patients with the highest-severity disease. In general, the benefits of CABG are further enhanced in patients with diabetes and/or impaired ventricular function. In stable or urgent clinical situations most decisions for intervention should be agreed by a multidisciplinary group ('Heart Team'), incorporating the severity of CAD and the patient's overall clinical suitability and personal wishes for any proposed procedure. • CABG is a superior treatment to PCI in most MVD in terms of improved survival, reduced myocardial infarction and reduced need for repeat revascularization. • CABG benefits are further exaggerated in diabetes and Ischemic cardiomyopathy. • For LMD, PCI may produce outcomes similar to CABG for patients with low- and Intermediate Syntax scores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We sought to evaluate angiographic outcomes in ostial and distal LM lesions.Methods: 176 patients with LM disease undergoing PCI were retrospectively included in this study. 9 months of angiographic and 12 months of clinical follow-up was obtained. Quantitative coronary analysis (QCA) was performed for all lesions, using an 11-segment model. Clinical endpoint measure was a composite endpoint of cardiac death, myocardial infarction and target lesion revascularization (TLR).Results: During 12 months follow up after successful PCI, the composite endpoint occurred more frequently in distal LM bifurcation lesions mainly driven by elevated TLR rates (14.1% in distal LM disease vs. 5.6% in ostial/midshaft LM disease, P = 0.20). Concordantly angiographic binary restenosis (8.2% compared to 0.0%) and late lumen loss (LLL, 0.42 ± 0.97 vs. 0.28 ± 0.34 mm) were increased in distal LM bifurcation lesions compared to ostial LM lesions. In distal lesions highest values for LLL were observed in segments adjacent to the bifurcation (0.37 ± 1.13 mm and 0.37 ± 0.73 mm). On cox proportional regression analysis the angiographic parameter LLL in a bifurcation segment (P = 0.03, HR 1.68 [1.1-2.7]) as well as presence of diabetes mellitus as a clinical parameter (P = 0.046, HR 2.77 [1.0-7.5]) were independent correlates for occurrence of MACE in distal LM bifurcations lesions.Conclusion: PCI of ostial LM in accomplished with low LLL (0.28 ± 0.34 mm) and binary restenosis rates. In distal left main lesions highest rates for LLL and binary restenosis were observed in segments nearest to the bifurcation and rather focused on the main vessel (0.42 ± 0.97 mm). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Varying definitions of procedural myocardial infarction (PMI) are in widespread use.Objectives: This study sought to determine the rates and clinical relevance of PMI using different definitions in patients with left main coronary artery disease randomized to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) versus coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery in the EXCEL (Evaluation of XIENCE versus Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery for Effectiveness of Left Main Revascularization) trial.Methods: The pre-specified protocol definition of PMI (PMIProt) required a large elevation of creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), with identical threshold for both procedures. The Third Universal Definition of MI (types 4a and 5) (PMIUD) required lesser biomarker elevations but with supporting evidence of myocardial ischemia, different after PCI and CABG. For the PMIUD, troponins were used preferentially (available in 49.5% of patients), CK-MB otherwise. The multivariable relationship between each PMI type and 5-year mortality was determined.Results: PMIProt occurred in 34 of 935 (3.6%) patients after PCI and 56 of 923 (6.1%) patients after CABG (difference -2.4%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -4.4% to -0.5%; p = 0.015). The corresponding rates of PMIUD were 37 (4.0%) and 20 (2.2%), respectively (difference 1.8%; 95% CI: 0.2% to 3.4%; p = 0.025). Both PMIProt and PMIUD were associated with 5-year cardiovascular mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [HR]: 2.18 [95% CI: 1.13 to 4.23] and 2.87 [95% CI: 1.44 to 5.73], respectively). PMIProt was associated with a consistent hazard of cardiovascular mortality after both PCI and CABG (pinteraction = 0.86). Conversely, PMIUD was strongly associated with cardiovascular mortality after CABG (adjusted HR: 11.94; 95% CI: 4.84 to 29.47) but not after PCI (adjusted HR: 1.14; 95% CI: 0.35 to 3.67) (pinteraction = 0.004). Results were similar for all-cause mortality and with varying PMIUD biomarker definitions. Only large biomarker elevations (CK-MB ≥10× upper reference limit and troponin ≥70× upper reference limit) were associated with mortality.Conclusions: The rates of PMI after PCI and CABG vary greatly with different definitions. In the EXCEL trial, the pre-specified PMIProt was associated with similar hazard after PCI and CABG, whereas PMIUD was strongly associated with mortality after CABG but not after PCI. (EXCEL Clinical Trial [EXCEL]; NCT01205776). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Treatment of left main coronary artery disease (LMCAD) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) with either percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) remains controversial. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the optimal choice of therapy when treating LMCAD in patients with CKD.Method: We performed an electronic database search of Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Library for all studies that compared PCI with CABG when treating LMCAD in the setting of CKD. Major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) were the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included myocardial infarction (MI), cerebrovascular events, all-cause mortality, and repeat revascularization.Results: Our analysis included 5 studies (2 randomized controlled trial and 3 retrospective) representing a total of 1212 patients. Mean follow up was 3.4 ± 1.3 years. Our study demonstrated a significant reduction in MACCE for patients treated with CABG compared with PCI (odd ratio [OR] 0.72; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.55-0.95, P = 0.02, I2 = 0%). We also found a significant reduction in both MI (OR 0.55; 95% CI 0.34-0.87; P = 0.01; I2 = 0%) and repeat revascularization (OR 0.22; 95% CI 0.10-0.51; P < 0.001, I2 = 63%) in the CABG group. However, CABG was associated with increased risks of cerebrovascular disease events compared with PCI (OR 2.04; 95% CI 1.02-4.08; P = 0.04, I2 = 0%).Conclusion: In patients with CKD requiring LMCAD intervention, CABG is associated with a lower risk of MACCE, MI, and repeat revascularization, however it was associated with an increased risk of cerebrovascular accidents when compared to patients who received PCI therapy. Further RCTs with sufficient power are required to confirm these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Concerns remain for a greater risk of incomplete revascularization and reduced survival with off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery compared with on-pump surgery particularly in patients with left main disease and extensive underlying myocardial ischemia.Objectives: This study sought to compare outcomes following off-pump versus on-pump surgery for left main disease by performing a post hoc analysis from the multicenter, randomized EXCEL (Evaluation of XIENCE versus Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery for Effectiveness of Left Main Revascularization) trial.Methods: The EXCEL trial was designed to compare percutaneous coronary intervention with everolimus-eluting stents versus CABG in patients with left main disease. CABG was performed with or without cardiopulmonary bypass (on-pump vs. off-pump surgery) according to the discretion of the operator. The 3-year outcomes in the off-pump and on-pump groups were compared using inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) for treatment effect estimation.Results: Among 923 CABG patients, 652 and 271 patients underwent on-pump and off-pump surgery, respectively. Despite a similar extent of disease, off-pump surgery was associated with a lower rate of revascularization of the left circumflex coronary artery (84.1% vs. 90.0%; p = 0.01) and right coronary artery (31.1% vs. 40.6%; p = 0.007). After IPTW adjustment for baseline differences, off-pump surgery was associated with a significantly increased risk of 3-year all-cause death (8.8% vs. 4.5%; hazard ratio: 1.94; 95% confidence interval: 1.10 to 3.41; p = 0.02) and a nonsignificant difference in the risk for the composite endpoint of death, myocardial infarction, or stroke (11.8% vs. 9.2%; hazard ratio: 1.28; 95% confidence interval: 0.82 to 2.00; p = 0.28).Conclusions: Among patients with left main disease treated with CABG in the EXCEL trial, off-pump surgery was associated with a lower rate of revascularization of the coronary arteries supplying the inferolateral wall and an increased risk of 3-year all-cause death compared with on-pump surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The randomized EXCEL (Evaluation of XIENCE versus Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery for Effectiveness of Left Main Revascularization) trial reported a similar rate of the 3-year composite primary endpoint of death, myocardial infarction (MI), or stroke in patients with left main coronary artery disease (LMCAD) and site-assessed low or intermediate SYNTAX scores treated with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Whether these results are consistent in high-risk patients with diabetes, who have fared relatively better with CABG in most prior trials, is unknown.Objectives: In this pre-specified subgroup analysis from the EXCEL trial, the authors sought to examine the effect of diabetes in patients with LMCAD treated with PCI versus CABG.Methods: Patients (N = 1,905) with LMCAD and site-assessed low or intermediate CAD complexity (SYNTAX scores ≤32) were randomized 1:1 to PCI with everolimus-eluting stents versus CABG, stratified by the presence of diabetes. The primary endpoint was the rate of a composite of all-cause death, stroke, or MI at 3 years. Outcomes were examined in patients with (n = 554) and without (n = 1,350) diabetes.Results: The 3-year composite primary endpoint was significantly higher in diabetic compared with nondiabetic patients (20.0% vs. 12.9%; p < 0.001). The rate of the 3-year primary endpoint was similar after treatment with PCI and CABG in diabetic patients (20.7% vs. 19.3%, respectively; hazard ratio: 1.03; 95% confidence interval: 0.71 to 1.50; p = 0.87) and nondiabetic patients (12.9% vs. 12.9%, respectively; hazard ratio: 0.98; 95% confidence interval: 0.73 to 1.32; p = 0.89). All-cause death at 3 years occurred in 13.6% of PCI and 9.0% of CABG patients (p = 0.046), although no significant interaction was present between diabetes status and treatment for all-cause death (p = 0.22) or other endpoints, including the 3-year primary endpoint (p = 0.82) or the major secondary endpoints of death, MI, or stroke at 30 days (p = 0.61) or death, MI, stroke, or ischemia-driven revascularization at 3 years (p = 0.65).Conclusions: In the EXCEL trial, the relative 30-day and 3-year outcomes of PCI with everolimus-eluting stents versus CABG were consistent in diabetic and nondiabetic patients with LMCAD and site-assessed low or intermediate SYNTAX scores.(Evaluation of XIENCE versus Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery for Effectiveness of Left Main Revascularization [EXCEL]; NCT01205776). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is limited information on the incidence and prognostic impact of new-onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF) following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) for left main coronary artery disease (LMCAD).Objectives: This study sought to determine the incidence of NOAF following PCI and CABG for LMCAD and its effect on 3-year cardiovascular outcomes.Methods: In the EXCEL (Evaluation of XIENCE Versus Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery for Effectiveness of Left Main Revascularization) trial, 1,905 patients with LMCAD and low or intermediate SYNTAX scores were randomized to PCI with everolimus-eluting stents versus CABG. Outcomes were analyzed according to the development of NOAF during the initial hospitalization following revascularization.Results: Among 1,812 patients without atrial fibrillation on presentation, NOAF developed at a mean of 2.7 ± 2.5 days after revascularization in 162 patients (8.9%), including 161 of 893 (18.0%) CABG-treated patients and 1 of 919 (0.1%) PCI-treated patients (p < 0.0001). Older age, greater body mass index, and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction were independent predictors of NOAF in patients undergoing CABG. Patients with versus without NOAF had a significantly longer duration of hospitalization, were more likely to be discharged on anticoagulant therapy, and had an increased 30-day rate of Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction major or minor bleeding (14.2% vs. 5.5%; p < 0.0001). By multivariable analysis, NOAF after CABG was an independent predictor of 3-year stroke (6.6% vs. 2.4%; adjusted hazard ratio [HR]: 4.19; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.74 to 10.11; p = 0.001), death (11.4% vs. 4.3%; adjusted HR: 3.02; 95% CI: 1.60 to 5.70; p = 0.0006), and the primary composite endpoint of death, MI, or stroke (22.6% vs. 12.8%; adjusted HR: 2.13; 95% CI: 1.39 to 3.25; p = 0.0004).Conclusions: In patients with LMCAD undergoing revascularization in the EXCEL trial, NOAF was common after CABG but extremely rare after PCI. The development of NOAF was strongly associated with subsequent death and stroke in CABG-treated patients. Further studies are warranted to determine whether prophylactic strategies to prevent or treat atrial fibrillation may improve prognosis in patients with LMCAD who are undergoing CABG. (Evaluation of XIENCE Versus Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery for Effectiveness of Left Main Revascularization [EXCEL]; NCT01205776). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Lp(a) was closely associated with coronary severity. • Lp(a) was associated with Gensini score, left main disease and three-vessel disease. • Lp(a) was nonlinearly associated with Gensini score and three-vessel disease. Although current evidence suggests a causal association between lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] and cardiovascular disease, there is still no consensus on its association with coronary severity in new-onset acute myocardial infarction (AMI). We explored the association of Lp(a) with coronary severity. In this large cross-sectional study, we enrolled 2,740 patients with new-onset AMI from the Zhongda Hospital affiliated to Southeast University. Lp(a) was considered as an exposure variable. Gensini score, left main disease and three-vessel disease were used to assess coronary severity. Multivariate logistic regression, restricted cubic spline (RCS) models and threshold effects were used to analyze the association of Lp(a) with coronary severity. Multivariate adjusted models showed that Lp(a) was independently associated with Gensini score (≥100), left main disease and three-vessel disease [Q4 vs Q1, OR (95 % CI), P value: 2.301 (1.770, 2.992), P < 0.001; 1.743 (1.174, 2.587), P = 0.006; 1.431 (1.128, 1.816), P = 0.003; respectively], and the associations persisted in sensitivity analyses and most subgroups (P < 0.05). Additionally, the RCS showed that Lp(a) was nonlinearly associated with Gensini score (continuous variable), Gensini score (≥100) and three-vessel disease (P for nonlinearity < 0.05). Threshold effects analysis showed that Lp(a) above the inflection point was positively associated with Gensini score (continuous variable) as well as the risk of Gensini score (≥100) and three-vessel disease. Lp(a) was closely associated with coronary severity represented by Gensini score, left main disease and three-vessel disease in patients with new-onset AMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medically managed significant left main (LM) stem disease has been considered a determinant of increased cardiac mortality approaching 50% at 3-year follow-up. Despite the clinical significance of LM disease, studies comparing the various diagnostic modalities, especially noninvasive, are sparse. Clinicians, particularly imagers, should be aware of the strengths and weaknesses of existing modalities to diagnose LM disease as integrating many clues (history, symptoms, electrocardiogram, and stress hemodynamics are essential to suspect this diagnosis and proceed to the next step). Here we review the existing data on the current role of electrocardiography, nuclear myocardial perfusion imaging (single photon emission computed tomography and positron emission tomography), stress echocardiography, cardiac computed tomography, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in diagnostic evaluation of LM disease. Wherever applicable we have extended our discussion to multivessel coronary artery disease encompassing scenarios where LMS can present as LM equivalent with or without extensive multivessel coronary artery disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives This study determined angiographic and clinical outcomes after everolimus-eluting stent (EES)–supported percutaneous coronary intervention for unprotected left main disease (ULMD) and high SYNTAX (SYNergy between PCI with TAXus and Cardiac Surgery) trial score (≥33). Background The SYNTAX trial has shown the superiority of coronary surgery over percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with ULMD and complex coronary anatomy. It has been hypothesized that, if newer generation drug-eluting stents had been used in the SYNTAX trial, there would have been a significant reduction in clinical events. Methods Patients had angiograms scored according to the SYNTAX score algorithm and were divided into 2 groups: those with SYNTAX score of ≥33 and those with <33. The main endpoints were ULMD restenosis and 3-year cardiac mortality. Results From May 2008 to July 2014, 393 patients underwent EES implantation for ULMD (181 patients had a SYNTAX score ≥33, whereas 212 patients had a SYNTAX score <33). Overall, the restenosis rate was 4.9% (6% in SYNTAX patients scoring ≥33 and 4.1% in SYNTAX patients scoring <33; p = 0.399). On multivariate analysis, the only variable related to restenosis was stent length (odds ratio [OR]: 1.06; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02 to 1.09; p = 0.002). Three-year cardiac survival rates were 99 ± 1% and 98 ± 2% in patients with European system for cardiac operative risk evaluation (EuroSCORE) <6 and SYNTAX <33 and ≥33, respectively, and 90 ± 3% and 87 ± 3% in patients with a EuroSCORE >6 and SYNTAX score <33 and ≥33, respectively. EuroSCORE was strongly related to cardiac mortality, while the SYNTAX score ≥33 was not both in patients with a EuroSCORE <6 or ≥6, and there were no interactions between EuroSCORE and SYNTAX score ≥33. Conclusions For ULMD patients, high anatomical complexity as defined by a SYNTAX score ≥33 is not predictive of clinical outcome after PCI. (TAXUS Drug-Eluting Stent Versus Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery for the Treatment of Narrowed Arteries [SYNTAX]; NCT00114972 ) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives This study has reported 10-year clinical follow-up of patients enrolled in the prospective, randomized LE MANS (Left Main Stenting) trial. Background The very long-term outcome after left main stenting in comparison with surgical revascularization remains unknown. Methods In this prospective, multicenter trial, we randomly assigned 105 patients with unprotected left main coronary artery stenosis with low and medium complexity of coexisting coronary artery disease according to SYNTAX (Synergy Between Percutaneous Coronary Intervention With Taxus and Cardiac Surgery) score to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with stenting (n = 52) or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) (n = 53). Drug-eluting stents were implanted in 35%, whereas arterial grafts to the left anterior descending artery were utilized in 81%. Currently, the mean long-term follow-up was collected at 9.8 ± 1.0 years. Follow up for all-cause mortality is complete, whereas the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular and cerebral events (MACCE) was reported from 90% of patients. Ambulatory follow-up was completed in 46 (43.9%) patients. Results At 10 years, there was a trend toward higher ejection fraction in stenting when compared with surgery (54.9 ± 8.3% vs. 49.8 ± 10.3%; p = 0.07). The mortality (21.6% vs. 30.2%; p = 0.41) and MACCE (51.1% vs. 64.4%; p = 0.28) were statistically not different between groups; however, numerically the difference was in favor of stenting. Similarly, there was no difference in the occurrence of myocardial infarction (8.7 vs. 10.4%; p = 0.62), stroke (4.3 vs. 6.3%; p = 0.68), and repeated revascularization rates (26.1% vs. 31.3%; p = 0.64). The probability of very long-term survival up to 14 years was comparable between PCI and CABG (74.2% vs. 67.5%; p = 0.34; hazard ratio: 1.45, 95% confidence interval: 0.67 to 3.13); however, there was a trend toward higher MACCE-free survival in the PCI group (34.7% vs. 22.1%; p = 0.06; hazard ratio: 1.71, 95% confidence interval: 0.97 to 2.99). Conclusions In patients with unprotected left main coronary artery stenosis with low and medium complexity of coexisting coronary artery disease, stenting offers numerically, but statistically nonsignificant, favorable long-term outcome up to 10 years in terms of safety and efficacy outcome measures, therefore, constitutes an alternative therapy for CABG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/purpose: Patients with acute coronary syndrome due to left main and/or three-vessel disease (LM/3VD) are at the highest risk of short- and long-term adverse cardiovascular events. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been shown to predict the severity of coronary artery disease in various clinical settings, but its independent predictive value for LM/3VD has not been investigated in patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). We aimed to evaluate the independent predictive value of NLR for LM/3VD in NSTEMI patients.Methods/materials: We performed a retrospective analysis of consecutive NSTEMI patients who underwent coronary angiography. NLR was calculated as the ratio of neutrophil to lymphocyte based on the laboratory data on admission. The primary outcome was the presence of LM/3VD.Results: In all, 396 patients were included in the final analysis. Median NLR in the entire study population was 3.43 (interquartile range, 2.12-5.51). By receiver operating characteristics curve analysis, the optimal cutoff value of NLR in predicting LM/3VD was 2.80 (area under the curve 0.60, sensitivity 73%, specificity 43%). Of the 396 patients, 244 patients (62%) had NLR ≥2.8. Patients with NLR ≥2.8 were older and had a higher prevalence of LM/3VD (30 % vs. 18%, p=0.005). According to multivariate logistic regression analysis, NLR ≥2.8 was an independent predictor of LM/3VD after adjusting for other clinical variables including ST depression and ST elevation in lead aVR (odds ratio 1.83, 95% confidence interval 1.07-3.21, p=0.03).Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that NLR ≥2.8 is an independent predictor of LM/3VD in patients with NSTEMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Certain patients with complex calcified left main (LM) disease have a prohibitive risk for bypass surgery. Rotational atherectomy (RA) prior to stent implantation is an option for this subset of patients. Objective To analyze acute and long-term results of RA in the LM location. Methods We present a single-center analysis of RA in severe LM disease applied in patients with high surgical risk. Results RA was performed in the LM location in 50 consecutive patients with a mean age of 73 years. In 30% of the patients clinical presentation was an acute coronary syndrome, and 42% had diabetes. LM bifurcation was involved in 80% of the cases, 36% had a Medina class 1.1.1 lesion, and 38% of RA procedures were performed as bailout. In 38% of patients the left main was protected. Median logistic EuroSCORE was 12.4% (interquartile range, IQR, 5.24–36.11%) and mean SYNTAX Score was 28.6 ± 8.2. The median burr size was 1.5 mm and a two-stent strategy was required in 58% of interventions. Drug-eluting stents were implanted in 86% of procedures. Angiographic success rate was 96%, and in-hospital major adverse cardiac event rate was 10%. Survival free of cardiac death at 12 and 24 months was 87.6% and 78.4%. Target lesion revascularization rates (TLR) were 13.3% and 18.8%, respectively. Cardiac deaths were significantly higher in patients with acute coronary syndromes compared with patients with stable angina (cardiac death free survival was 72.7% and 94% at 12 months, p = 0.01). The TLR rate was numerically higher in diabetic patients (21.1% vs. 7.7% at one year, p = 0.18). Conclusion Acute and long-term outcomes after LM rotational atherectomy are satisfactory, considering the high procedure- and patient-related risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An 81-year-old woman was referred for primary angioplasty due to a myocardial infarction. Upon her arrival, the patient was in cardiogenic shock. Coronarography revealed a large filling defect within the left main coronary artery. Thromboaspiration was performed, obtaining thrombotic material and tissue of different consistencies. Balloon angioplasty in the left anterior descending and left main arteries was performed, resulting in incomplete reperfusion, leading to irreversible electromechanical dissociation. Analysis of the aspirated material was consistent with thrombus, atheroma, and calcified tissue. Autopsy revealed a heavily calcified mitral valve, and distal embolization of amorphous material in the microvasculature identical to that found in the mitral valve subapparatus. < Learning objective: Acute myocardial infarction due to left main embolization of tissue from mitral valve subapparatus is a rare condition but lethal. Early recognition of this condition is important for establishing the best option of treatment, between a percutaneous or surgical approach.> [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Revascularization with coronary artery bypass graft surgery is the choice of therapy in patients with left main (LM) coronary artery stenosis. During the last decade, the introduction of drug-eluting stents, together with antiplatelet and antithrombotic treatments, has improved the outcome of percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) by reducing the number of repeat revascularizations and the risk of stent thrombosis. Many institutions inside and outside the United States have adopted stent treatment of unprotected LM coronary artery disease as a more routine strategy. However, coronary bypass surgery has improved as well by using more arterial grafts, better perioperative care, and optimizing medical treatment postoperatively. The advances in stent technique may reduce the gap between coronary surgery and PCIs further, but the results of the Evaluation of Xience Prime versus Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery for Effectiveness of Left Main Revascularization study, randomizing patients with LM coronary artery disease between coronary bypass grafting and PCIs, will be needed to test whether PCIs is noninferior to coronary bypass surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Surgical revascularization is the most appropriate therapy for patients with significant left main coronary-artery disease (LMD). An incidence of perioperative stroke remains an issue when compared to the early outcomes to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This study evaluates the safety and impact of standardized “clampless” OPCAB techniques, composed of either complete in situ grafting or “clampless” device enabled techniques for stroke reduction in patients undergoing surgical revascularization for LMD. Methods: Between 1999 and 2009, 1031 patients with LMD underwent myocardial-revascularization at our institution. Of these, 507 patients underwent “clampless” OPCAB and 524 patients underwent conventional on-pump CABG (ONCABG). Data-collection was performed prospectively and a propensity-adjusted regression-analysis was applied to balance patient characteristics. LMD was defined as a stenosis >50% and endpoints were mortality, stroke, a cardiac-composite (including death, stroke and myocardial-infarction); a non-cardiac composite and complete-revascularization. Results: In OPCAB patients, the cardiac composite (3.0% vs. 7.8%; propensity-adjusted (PA)OR=0.27; CI95% 0.12–0.65; p=0.003) as well as the occurrence of stroke (0.4% vs. 2.9%; PAOR=0.04; CI95% 0.003–0.48; p=0.012) were significantly lower while the mortality-rate was well comparable between groups (1.8% vs. 2.5%; PAOR=0.44; CI95% 0.11–1.71; p=0.24). The non-cardiac composite was also significantly decreased after OPCAB (8.9% vs. 19.7%; PAOR=0.55; CI95% 0.34–0.89; p=0.014) and complete revascularization was achieved for similar proportions in both groups (95.1% vs. 93.7%; p=0.35). Conclusions: This study shows the superiority of OPCAB for patients with LMD with regards to risk-adjusted outcomes other than mortality. A “clampless OPCAB strategy”, effectively reduces stroke yielding similar early outcomes as PCI. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives: This study assessed 5-year outcomes after implantation of sirolimus-eluting stents (SES) for unprotected left main coronary artery (ULMCA) disease in comparison with that for non-left main disease. Background: More information on long-term outcomes after ULMCA stenting is needed. Methods: The j-Cypher is a multicenter prospective registry of consecutive patients undergoing SES implantation in Japan. Results: Among 12,812 patients enrolled in the j-Cypher registry, the unadjusted mortality rate at 5 years was significantly higher in patients with ULMCA stenting than in patients without ULMCA stenting (22.8% vs. 14.1%; p < 0.0001); however, the risk for death with ULMCA stenting was no longer significant after adjusting for confounders (hazard ratio: 1.18, 95% confidence interval: 0.95 to 1.46; p = 0.14). In the lesion-level comparison, the nonbifurcation ULMCA lesions treated exclusively with SES had a significantly lower rate of target lesion revascularization (TLR) than those in non-ULMCA nonbifurcation lesions (2.4% vs. 12.7%; p = 0.04). Among bifurcation lesions, those treated with a provisional 2-stent approach had similar rates of TLR (12.1% vs. 11.4%; p = 0.79) between the ULMCA and non-ULMCA groups. Lesions treated with an elective 2-stent approach had higher TLR rates in the ULMCA group as compared with the non-ULMCA group (33.5% vs. 19.7%; p = 0.002). Conclusions: The safety of ULMCA stenting relative to non-LMCA stenting was maintained through 5 years follow-up. In terms of efficacy, SES implantation in nonbifurcation ULMCA lesions was associated with an extremely low cumulative incidence of TLR, whereas the elective 2-stent approach for ULMCA bifurcation lesions was associated with a markedly higher cumulative incidence of TLR as compared with that for non-ULMCA bifurcation lesions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the progression of atherosclerosis within the left main coronary artery (LMCA) in association with risk factor modifying therapies. Background: Despite studies demonstrating slowing of disease progression within epicardial coronaries with risk factor modification, little is known about the natural history and clinical sequelae of atherosclerosis progression within the LMCA. Methods: In 340 patients with angiographic coronary artery disease who underwent serial intravascular ultrasound imaging to evaluate the effects of anti atherosclerotic therapies across 7 clinical trials, LMCA and epicardial disease progression was characterized. Relationships between changes in plaque burden with remodeling parameters and the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) (death, myocardial infarction, hospital stay for unstable angina, and coronary revascularization) were investigated. Results: Plaque regression was observed in the LMCA segment, and progression was observed in adjacent epicardial segments (percent atheroma volume [PAV] −0.39 ± 0.1% vs. +0.37 ± 0.1%, p < 0.001). Changes in LMCA lumen volume correlated strongly with changes in external elastic membrane (beta coefficient 0.91, p < 0.001) and negatively with the change in PAV (beta coefficient −0.55, p < 0.001). Patients who experienced a MACE had smaller baseline LMCA minimum lumen area (11.6 vs. 12.2 mm2, p = 0.05) and greater progression of PAV in the LMCA (+0.51 ± 0.3% vs. −0.35 ± 0.2%, p = 0.02) compared with those who were MACE-free. Significant reductions from baseline in both external elastic membrane (−4.7 ± 1.7 mm3, p < 0.01) and lumen volumes (−4.0 ± 1 mm3, p < 0.01) were also observed in those having an event. Conclusions: Left main coronary atherosclerosis responds to systemic risk factor modification. Patients experiencing a MACE were more likely to demonstrate progressive disease and constrictive arterial remodeling within the LMCA segment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the additional value of the Global Risk—a combination of the SYNTAX Score (SXscore) and additive EuroSCORE—in the identification of a low-risk population, who could safely and efficaciously be treated with coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Background: PCI is increasingly acceptable in appropriately selected patients with left main stem or 3-vessel coronary artery disease. Methods: Within the SYNTAX Trial (Synergy between PCI with TAXUS and Cardiac Surgery Trial), all-cause death and major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) were analyzed at 36 months in low (GRCLOW) to high Global Risk groups, with Kaplan-Meier, log-rank, and Cox regression analyses. Results: Within the randomized left main stem population (n = 701), comparisons between GRCLOW groups demonstrated a significantly lower mortality with PCI compared with CABG (CABG: 7.5%, PCI: 1.2%, hazard ratio [HR]: 0.16, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.03 to 0.70, p = 0.0054) and a trend toward reduced MACCE (CABG: 23.1%, PCI: 15.8%, HR: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.39 to 1.07, p = 0.088). Similar analyses within the randomized 3-vessel disease population (n = 1,088) demonstrated no statistically significant differences in mortality (CABG: 5.2%, PCI: 5.8%, HR: 1.14, 95% CI: 0.57 to 2.30, p = 0.71) or MACCE (CABG: 19.0%, PCI: 24.7%, HR: 1.35, 95% CI: 0.95 to 1.92, p = 0.10). Risk-model performance and reclassification analyses demonstrated that the EuroSCORE—with the added incremental benefit of the SXscore to form the Global Risk—enhanced the risk stratification of all PCI patients. Conclusions: In comparison with the SXscore, the Global Risk, with a simple treatment algorithm, substantially enhances the identification of low-risk patients who could safely and efficaciously be treated with CABG or PCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to investigate whether right coronary artery chronic total occlusion (CTO) carries prognostic implications in patients undergoing drug-eluting stent–supported percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for unprotected left main disease (ULMD). Background: No data exist on the prognostic implication of CTO in patients undergoing PCI for ULMD. Methods: Prospective registry of consecutive patients undergoing PCI for ULMD. Patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction were excluded. Primary endpoints were 6-month and long-term cardiac mortality. Results: From January 2004 to December 2009, 330 patients underwent PCI for ULMD. Of the 330 patients, 78 (24%) had CTO of the right coronary artery, 22 (7%) had CTO of the left anterior descending artery, and 16 (5%) had CTO of the left circumflex artery. Patients with right coronary artery CTO had a higher risk profile compared with patients without right coronary artery CTO. The 6-month mortality rate was 12.8% in patients with right coronary artery CTO, and 3.6% in patients without right coronary artery CTO (p < 0.002), and the 3-year cardiac survival rate was 76.4 ± 6.8% and 89.7 ± 2.7% (p < 0.003), respectively. By multivariable analysis, the only 2 independent predictors of 3-year cardiac mortality were right coronary artery CTO (hazard ratio: 2.15, 95% confidence interval: 1.02 to 4.50; p = 0.043) and EuroSCORE (hazard ratio: 1.03, 95% confidence interval: 1.02 to 1.05; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Right coronary artery CTO occurs frequently and is a significant predictor of mortality in patients with ULMD undergoing PCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute occlusion involving the unprotected left main coronary artery (ULMCA) is a clinically catastrophic event, often leading to abrupt and severe circulatory failure, lethal arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death. Although coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is the standard of care for ULMCA disease in patients with stable ischemic heart disease, uncertainty surrounds the optimal revascularization strategy for patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (MI) and ULMCA occlusion who survive to hospitalization, and treatment guidelines in this setting are vague. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is technically feasible in most patients, has the advantage of providing more rapid reperfusion compared with CABG with acceptable short- and long-term outcomes, and is associated with a lower risk of stroke. PCI of the ULMCA should be considered as a viable alternative to CABG for selected patients with MI, including those with ULMCA occlusion and less than Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction flow grade 3, cardiogenic shock, persistent ventricular arrhythmias, and significant comorbidities. The higher risk of target vessel revascularization associated with ULMCA PCI compared with CABG is an acceptable tradeoff given the primary need for rapid reperfusion to enhance survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) of complex coronary lesions in patients with severely depressed left ventricular (LV) function may increasingly constitute an alternative to surgical revascularization. The availability of hemodynamic support devices offers a promising option to reduce PCI-related complications in such high-risk procedures. We report the case of a successful distal left main coronary artery T-stenting supported by the Impella Recover LP 2.5 assist device in a patient with severe LV dysfunction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for high-grade stenosis of the left main coronary artery with bare-metal stents has been limited by restenosis, and most patients are managed with coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Recently, drug-eluting stents (DES) have reduced instent restenosis after PCI, but their role in the treatment of left main disease remains unclear. Aims: The aim of this study was to determine the outcomes after utilizing DES to treat left main disease. Methods: Twenty consecutive symptomatic patients with >50% angiographic stenosis of the left main coronary artery with no prior history of CABG ["unprotected left main" (ULM)] underwent PCI with DES. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence (Group A, n=5) or absence (Group B, n=15) of preprocedural cardiogenic shock. At follow up (median, 14 months), cumulative major adverse cardiac events (MACE-death, myocardial infarction, or target vessel revascularization) were determined. Results: Sixteen (80%) of 20 patients were at high risk for CABG because of comorbidity, advanced age, or cardiogenic shock. Procedural success was 100% (20/20). Three of five patients in Group A (60%) died in hospital and the two surviving patients experienced no MACE at follow up. In Group B (n=15), there was no in-hospital MACE, but one patient died suddenly 8 weeks postprocedure [cumulative MACE of 7% (1/15)]. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates the feasibility of ULM treatment with DES with acceptable medium-term outcomes. While CABG remains the best form of revascularization for the majority of patients with ULM, DES should be considered in those who are at high risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background With the advent of bare metal stents and drug-eluting stents, percutaneous coronary intervention has emerged as an alternative to coronary artery bypass grafting surgery for unprotected left main disease. However, whether the evolution of stents technology has translated into better results after percutaneous coronary intervention remains unclear. We aimed to compare coronary artery bypass grafting with stents of different generations for left main disease by performing a Bayesian network meta-analysis of available randomized controlled trials. Methods All randomized controlled trials with at least 1 arm randomized to percutaneous coronary intervention with stents or coronary artery bypass grafting for left main disease were included. Bare metal stents and drug-eluting stents of first- and second-generation were compared with coronary artery bypass grafting. Poisson methods and Bayesian framework were used to compute the head-to-head incidence rate ratio and 95% credible intervals. Primary end points were the composite of death/myocardial infarction/stroke and repeat revascularization. Results Nine randomized controlled trials were included in the final analysis. Six trials compared percutaneous coronary intervention with coronary artery bypass grafting (n = 4654), and 3 trials compared different types of stents (n = 1360). Follow-up ranged from 6 months to 5 years. Second-generation drug-eluting stents (incidence rate ratio, 1.3; 95% credible interval, 1.1-1.6), but not bare metal stents (incidence rate ratio, 0.63; 95% credible interval, 0.27-1.4), and first-generation drug-eluting stents (incidence rate ratio, 0.85; 95% credible interval, 0.65-1.1) were associated with a significantly increased risk of death/myocardial infarction/stroke when compared with coronary artery bypass grafting. When compared with coronary artery bypass grafting, the highest risk of repeat revascularization was observed for bare metal stents (hazard ratio, 5.1; 95% confidence interval, 2.1-14), whereas first-generation drug-eluting stents (incidence rate ratio, 1.8; 95% confidence interval, 1.4-2.4) and second-generation drug-eluting stents (incidence rate ratio, 1.8; 95% confidence interval, 1.4-2.4) were comparable. Conclusions The introduction of new-generation drug-eluting stents did not translate into better outcomes for percutaneous coronary intervention when compared with coronary artery bypass grafting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronary artery stents revolutionized the practice of interventional cardiology after they were first introduced in the mid-1980s. Since then, there have been significant developments in their design, the most notable of which has been the introduction of drug-eluting stents. This paper reviews the benefits, risks, and current status of Food and Drug Administration-approved drug-eluting stents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]