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Heart Disease  (Expert Forum)
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Brachytherapy for Artery blockage
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This forum is for questions and support regarding heart issues such as: Angina, Angioplasty, Arrhythmia, Bypass Surgery, Cardiomyopathy, Coronary Artery Disease, Defibrillator, Heart Attack, Heart Disease, High Blood Pressure, Mitral Valve Prolapse, Pacemaker, PAD, Stenosis, Stress Tests.

Brachytherapy for Artery blockage

by Steve De Salvo, Sep 24, 1999 12:00AM
My father is 61 years old, and in good general health.  Recently he has experienced forms of chest pain, and was given a stress test.  The results of the test showed that although he has a strong heart (he was on a running program of 3 or 4 miles 3 times a week) he does have some blockage some blockage (he has not yet had an angiogram).  Although I do not know what the recommendation of the doctor will be I am guessing that angioplasty is a possibility.  I have been performing research on the topic, and have found several referances to brachytherapy used in conjunction with angioplasty.  The results of the tests seen very positive, however I have not seen any recent postings on the topic.  Is there any new or updated research on the proceedure I can obtain?  I am wondering what the possible side affects of the proceedure might be.  Any information on this topic would be very helpful.

Thanks

Steve De Salvo

by Cleveland Clinic, MD, Sep 24, 1999 12:00AM
The use of radiation within stents in the coronary arteries (brachytherapy) is a relatively new but promising field.  One of the problems with stents is the return of blockage within the stent refered to as "in-stent restenosis".  There are several studies that demonstrate a positive effect of radiation in decreasing this from happening.   The use of radiation in stents is still experimental and can only be done as part of a trial.  It is currently reserved for patients that have had multiple failed attempts at conventional therapy.  We usually have a trial with radiation stents underway at the Cleveland Clinic and those interested can call (216) 444-0770 for additional information.  Here are some review articles that have additional information.

Crocker I. Radiation therapy to prevent coronary artery restenosis. [Review] [41 refs] Seminars in Radiation Oncology. 9(2):134-43, 1999 Apr.

Fischell TA. Radioactive stents. [Review] [18 refs] Seminars in Interventional Cardiology. 3(2):51-6, 1998 Jun.

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