Repeat coronary revascularization
Repeat Coronary Revascularization
Coronary revascularization is the process of removing blockages in the coronary arteries to improve the flow of blood and relieve symptoms of ischemic heart disease. The two primary procedures are coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). In PCI, a balloon and stent are used to prop open the coronary artery at the site of the blockage. CABG involves surgically rerouting a blood vessel from elsewhere in the body to bypass the blockage.
Repeat coronary revascularization is coronary revascularization that has been performed more than once on the same patient. It may involve undergoing either CABG or PCI more than one time. This may be due to the return of blockage in the artery after an initial revascularization procedure, or it may be due to restenosis, which is a recurrent narrowing of the artery.
There are several factors that can increase the likelihood of revascularization being done a second time. These include:
- A history of coronary artery diseases
- Advanced age
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol levels
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
Repeat coronary revascularization is more common than the initial procedure, and its incidence is increasing with improved survival among patients with ischemic heart disease. The main goal of this procedure is to reduce symptoms such as chest pain and improve quality of life. However, it is important to understand the risks associated with this procedure as well as the potential benefits.
The most common risk of repeat coronary revascularization is the recurrence of blockage in the artery or restenosis. Other risks include bleeding, infection, and stroke. In rare cases, death may occur due to complications of the procedure. For these reasons, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure with your doctor before undergoing any coronary revascularization.