Methods of Coronary Revascularization — Things May Not Be as They Seem

Abstract

During the past three decades, randomized trials and registries have provided extensive evidence regarding the indications for and preferred method of coronary revascularization.¹ The initial trials focused on indications for coronary-artery bypass grafting (CABG) versus medical therapy. Subsequent trials compared percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) with medical therapy, and CABG with PTCA. These were followed by comparisons of PTCA with devices and stents; one trial compared coronary revascularization with medical therapy in elderly patients.² The New York registries of CABG and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), which were used in the study reported by Hannan et al. in this issue of . . .