A Guide to Coronary Angioplasty and Stenting

The treatment of coronary artery disease by angioplasty and stenting is a major part of interventional cardiology. This guide offers a practical introduction to procedures for the trainee and a review of the techniques and equipment currently in use. The principles and practice of PTCA are presented clearly and concisely. Catheters, wires, balloons, inflation devices, connectors, and stents are described and illustrated and routine procedures, including the use of intravascular ultrasound, are fully explained. The author also gives guidelines on how to deal with difficult cases, complications, and emergency situations. The guide includes basic information for those new to PTCA, clinical tips for safe and effective practice, it shows "before and after'' angiogram series, and features high-quality line drawings to familiarize the reader with a range of instruments and techniques.