[Histopathological features of balloon coronary angioplasty]

Balloon coronary angioplasty revascularization is accomplished through a remodelling of the atherosclerotic stenotic wall. Increase in lumen diameter is achieved by plaque cracking with intimal dissection, plaque compression and medial stretching. Acute complications are frequent (3-8%) and mostly consist of occlusive thrombosis occurring upon fissuring of atheromasic plaque, intimal flap with invagination, medio-adventitial dissection in the case of tearing of the tunica media, and atheromatous embolism. Healing process may be so exuberant as to lead to restenosis within a few months.