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Published on: August 8, 2025
Sex differences in percutaneous coronary interventions
Juzar O Lokhandwala1, Kimberly A Skelding
1Department of Cardiology, Geisinger Medical Center, 100 North Academy Lane, Danville, PA 17822, USA.
Insights
Cardiovascular disease poses a greater risk for women. This review examines percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) evidence in women, highlighting sex-specific treatment considerations for coronary artery disease.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Medicine
- Women's Health
Background:
- Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the primary cause of mortality in women.
- Women experience higher CVD-related mortality and morbidity, particularly during treatment.
- Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is crucial for coronary artery disease (CAD), especially acute coronary syndromes (ACS).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing evidence on PCI efficacy and safety in women.
- To identify and discuss sex-specific factors influencing PCI outcomes.
- To highlight the underrepresentation of women in PCI procedures.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on PCI in women.
- Analysis of sex-based differences in PCI outcomes.
- Evaluation of current guidelines and clinical practices.
Main Results:
- Women undergo only 33% of all PCI procedures.
- Evidence suggests potential sex-based differences in PCI effectiveness and complications.
- Further research is needed to optimize PCI therapy for women.
Conclusions:
- PCI is a vital treatment for women with CAD, but its utilization is suboptimal.
- Addressing sex-specific aspects of PCI is critical for improving outcomes.
- Increased awareness and research are necessary to enhance cardiovascular care for women.
Abstract:
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality in women, and women have a higher cardiovascular mortality and morbidity associated with the treatment of cardiovascular disease compared to men. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is an important therapy for women with coronary artery disease particularly in acute coronary syndromes; however, only 33% of all PCIs are performed in women. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the evidence for PCI in women and demonstrate the unique aspects of therapy in regard to sex.
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