Treatment of bifurcation lesions has been associated with lower success and higher complications rates. They represent a major interventional challenge. Redistribution of plaque (snowplow effect) often leads to occlusion of the side branch. To lower the risk of plaque shift, the kissing balloon technique was developed. Stenting of both vessels provided no advantage in terms of procedural success and late outcome versus a simpler strategy of stenting only the parent vessel. Various others techniques, such as rotational or excimer laser atherectomy, have been proposed, but the incidence of side

Profound advancements in the management of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) have been realized in recent years. Initial medical therapy for non-ST segment elevation ACS has evolved to include the use of the combined treatment modalities of antiplatelet agents, antithrombin agents, and anti-ischemic therapies. Key trials have shown the therapeutic benefits of antiplatelet therapy with glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa inhibitors in non-ST segment elevation ACS and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Pooled data from major trials of GP IIb/IIIa inhibitors in non-ST segment elevation ACS show a sign

Coronary angiography and intervention are important tools that have greatly improved long-term survival for patients with ischemic heart disease. Extensive radiation received during prolonged fluoroscopic procedures has created a resurgence of cases of radiodermatitis, a clinical problem that had been declining after improvements in the technology of external beam radiation, and is now seldom seen among inpatient dermatology consultations. The dorsal and lateral thoracic locations of these radiation defects may be difficult soft tissue management problems. Factors that determine the extent of