Brachytherapy for Artery blockage

[Steve De Salvo]

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

[Cleveland Clinic, MD]

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 [phone] 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.