[Angiographic and functional long-term results 2 to 8 years following coronary angioplasty]

Functional and angiographic follow-up was performed in 61 patients 3.9 months (range 2-8 months) and 3.7 years (range 2-8 years) after successful transluminal coronary angioplasty. The mean degree of stenosis prior to angioplasty was 78.7% and after the procedure, 36%. After 3.9 months there was a slight increase to 39% because of 12 recurrences. In three of these patients a second angioplasty was performed; nine were continued on medical treatment because of sustained clinical benefit. After 3.7 years, the mean degree of stenosis was 29%. No patient with persistent vessel patency after 3.9 months showed an increase of the dilated stenosis of more than 15% after 3.7 years. Prior to angioplasty, 41 patients (75%) had one-vessel disease; 19 (18%) two- and 4 (7%) three-vessel disease. 2-8 years after successful angioplasty, 48% of patients showed no stenosis of greater than or equal to 50% narrowing. Progression of coronary artery disease was found in 29/61 patients at the late follow-up. Of these 29 patients, 11 underwent another angioplasty because of a new stenosis in another vessel or segment; 18 were treated medically. There was no need for bypass surgery. It is concluded that a sustained success 3.9 months after angioplasty predicts excellent long-term vessel patency.