Fish oil supplements for prevention of restenosis after coronary angioplasty

Abstract

We have evaluated the effect of fish oil supplementation in the prevention of restenosis after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty by a randomised trial conducted in 107 patients. The treatment group (n = 58, 96 significant coronary narrowings) received 10 capsules of fish oil (1.8 g eicosapentaenoic acid, 1.2 g docosahexaenoic acid) besides aspirin and calcium blockers, beginning 4.3 (SD 2.9) days before coronary angioplasty. The conventional medical treatment group (n = 49, 81 significant coronary narrowings) received only aspirin and calcium blockers. Enrollment required the presence of angina pectoris and successful dilatation of all significant coronary narrowings. All patients were followed-up for at least 6 months. Restenosis was identified by symptoms and exercise testing and confirmed by angiography. The incidence of angiographic restenosis was 32% in the fish oil group and 27% in the conventional treatment group. Biochemical investigations showed a greater decrease in serum triglyceride levels in fish oil group as compared to the conventional treatment group. There was no significant difference in the cholesterol levels over the treatment period. Administration of fish oil in a dose of 3 g per day did not reduce the incidence of early restenosis after coronary angioplasty.