Journal of Invasive Cardiology

Since 1977, when Gruentzig introduced balloon angioplasty as a less invasive alternative to coronary artery bypass graft surgery, the results have steadily improved. The proportion of complex patients who undergo this procedure has substantially increased, fueled by an unprecedented evolutionary change that has included the discovery of stents and the introduction of potent adjuvant pharmacological agents. Approximately 60% of all patients who undergo coronary artery revascularization via coronary artery bypass graft surgery or percutaneous intervention have multivessel disease that is amenable to treatment by either one of these procedures. Still, the most appropriate type of treatment for these patients is a matter of heated debate. In skilled hands, both techniques are relatively safe and highly effective in reducing angina, and have similar mortality and myocardial infarction rates, albeit fewer additional revascularization procedures in patients who undergo bypass surgery.1