[Can radiotherapy reduce the frequency of restenosis after coronary angioplasty?].
Today, percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) is the most important treatment modality for coronary artery disease. However, restenosis occurs in 20-40% of the vessels in spite of the use of stents. Intravascular radiation therapy has reduced the frequency of restenosis in both animal studies and clinical trials. Recent randomized trials have shown a reduction in the order of 30% after irradiation. A number of techniques which use different sources of radiation (beta vs. gamma radiation) are under investigation. This review gives and update of intravascular radiation therapy, including a discussion of ongoing trials. There is a great need, also in Norway, for treatment modalities that reduce the frequency of restenosis after PTCA. It would seem imperative that we start a discussion of whether and when intravascular radiation therapy should be available in Norway. Implementation requires planning on a national level with regard to investment in equipment and training.
Langberg
C W
CW
Onkologisk avdeling, Ullevål sykehus, Oslo.
Solheim
S
S
Hagen
S
S
D015906:Angioplasty, Balloon, Coronary; D000818:Animals; D001610:Beta Particles / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003327:Coronary Disease / Q000532:radiotherapy / Q000628:therapy*; D003331:Coronary Vessels / Q000528:radiation effects*; D005720:Gamma Rays / Q000627:therapeutic use; D053685:Laser Therapy; D011879:Radiotherapy Dosage; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D012008:Recurrence; D015607:Stents