[Current status of intracoronary brachytherapy]

Intracoronary radiation therapy or intracoronary brachytherapy has been developed as an attempt to decrease restenosis after percutaneous coronary interventions. Two parallel technologies, one employing radioactive stents, the other catheter-based radiation (using either beta- or gamma- emitters), have been the subject of numerous animal and human studies. In vivo intravascular ultrasound imaging studies have played a major role in determining the possible mechanism of action of intracoronary radiation therapy and the pathogeny of many of the complications related to the use of this technique. This manuscript is aimed at revising the potential and limitations of intracoronary brachytherapy, as well as at summarizing the results of the currently reported clinical trials.