PERCUTANEOUS TRANSLUMINAL CORONARY ANGIOP LASTY IN WOMEN

Women have been considered to be at higher risk for coronary angioplas ty, with higher complication and mortality rates, as reported by the f irst National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute registry on percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. However, there is evidence that a sex bias exists in the management of coronary heart disease: women are significantly less likely to undergo coronary angiography unless a co mplication arises, i.e. unstable angina or myocardial infarction. Wome n selected for angioplasty are therefore older, and at high risk for p rocedure related complications. Recent reports show similar primary su ccess and complication rate, despite older age and greater prior funct ional disability from angina.