Journal of Invasive Cardiology

Abstract: Background. Drug-eluting stent (DES) underexpansion has been reported as an independent factor for restenosis and thrombosis; therefore, adequate plaque modification prior to DES implantation is the key of calcified lesion treatment. Methods. Consecutive patients with severely calcified lesions undergoing rotational atherectomy (RA) followed by balloon dilatation before DES implantation were analyzed.

Abstract: Background. Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) provides information regarding lesion morphology and three-dimensional coronary anatomy incremental to coronary angiography. We addressed the question whether preprocedural CCTA bears potential for guiding percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI). Methods and Results. Sixty-six coronary lesions attempted with PCI within 6 months of preprocedural CCTA were retrospectively assessed.

Abstract: Background. Prior to June 2011, carotid artery stenting (CAS) had been limited to patients deemed high risk for surgical revascularization due to medical or anatomic reasons. Intraprocedural anticoagulation for CAS has traditionally been carried out with unfractionated heparin (UFH). The direct thrombin inhibitor bivalirudin has emerged as a possible alternative choice for anticoagulation in this patient population.

Abstract: Objectives. This study sought to assess the effectiveness and safety of the second-generation frequency-domain optical coherence tomography (FD-OCT) system. Background. The second-generation FD-OCT was recently developed, with simplified imaging technique and faster acquisition time compared to the first-generation time-domain OCT.

Abstract: Background. A minimally invasive pericardial access and chronic catheterization may enhance the therapeutic effects of intrapericardial drug delivery. We aimed to evaluate the technical feasibility of percutaneous intrapericardial implantation of a drug port system for chronic local drug delivery. Methods and Results. Under fluoroscopic guidance, a percutaneous subxiphoid access to the pericardial space was obtained with fine needle and micropuncture set in 6 Göttingen minipigs.

Abstract: Background. Device loss and entrapment are infrequent but potentially grave complications of percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI). There are limited contemporary data on the frequency, treatment, and consequences of these complications. Methods. We reviewed 2338 consecutive PCI cases performed between 1/2005 and 5/2010 at our institution to identify cases of device loss or entrapment. The angiograms and outcomes of these patients were reviewed.

Abstract: Objectives. Angioplasty of a stenosis at the ostium of a diagonal branch of the left anterior descending artery as an isolated lesion often poses a dilemma due to the risk involved in treating the lesion in comparison to the potential benefit. Therefore, we sought to investigate our experience with this issue. Methods. Between 1995 and 2010, we retrospectively analyzed 39,300 patients who underwent invasive coronary angiography in our institution.