Vascular radiation therapy to reduce coronary artery restenosis

Abstract

Restenosis of the dilated segment following percutaneous transluminal angioplasty is a commonly occurring problem. Several techniques such as pharmacologic agents, directional atherectomy, and endovascular stenting have been attempted with little success. This article gives an outline on the scope of the problem of restenosis, its pathophysiology, attempted treatments, and the promise of coronary vascular radiation therapy.